The 2005 Cote Rotie Lancement is superb, and a more seductive wine than the Belle Helene in this vintage. This cuvee wasn’t made in 2006, but the 2005 possesses a deep ruby/purple color, a wonderfully sweet, expressive nose of violets, bacon fat, black cherries and raspberries, followed by a medium to full-bodied, luscious wine that is classic Cote Blonde. With its silky texture, sweet tannin, opulence and length, this wine is hard to resist. I assume one could drink it now, but I suspect it won’t be at its best for at least another 3-4 years and last for 10-15 years. Readers will be happy to know that Stephane Ogier will be producing a Condrieu starting in the 2007 vintage.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083