The newest baby, the 2007 Crozes-Hermitage Roche-Pierre, as stated above, comes from granite soils and sees 40% new oak. Potentially outstanding, it is the fullest-bodied of these three 2007s, offering deep creme de cassis, licorice, smoked herb, and crushed rock notes. Good minerality buttresses the wine's substance and impressive richness. It should drink well for a decade or more.
(Not yet released)
Intelligently made, fresh, lively, concentrated wines emerge from the Domaine Belle, a modestly-sized Crozes-Hermitage estate that remains under the radar of most consumers. A Crozes-Hermitage cuvee from the granite soils of Larnage has recently been added to the portfolio.
Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083