The 2000 St.-Joseph Cuvee Prestige Le Lombard (100% old vine Marsanne), reveals a complex bouquet of honeyed citrus and exotic flowers, medium body, lovely fruit and lushness as well as impressive focus. It should be drunk over the next 2-3 years given this vintage's low acid characteristic. Although the 2000 whites are lighter and less intense than usual, they remain tasty.Importer: Neal Rosenthal, Select Vineyards, Shekomeko, NY; tel. (800) 910-1990

The 100% barrel-fermented and aged (about one-third new wood) 1998 St.-Joseph Cuvee Prestige Le Lombard (80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne) offers a Burgundian, roasted hazelnut, smoky, concentrated orange liqueur and honeysuckle-like richness. Defined and complex, with a lush texture, and beautifully integrated wood, this is an excellent, nearly outstanding white to drink over the next 2-3 years. Importer: Neal Rosenthal, Select Vineyards, Shekomeko, NY; tel. (800) 910-1990

The 1997 St.-Joseph Cuvee Prestige Le Lombarde offers pain grille intermixed with tropical fruit, especially honeyed citrus, pineapple, and mango. It is a full-bodied, low acid, exuberantly fruity, fresh wine to drink over the near-term. Importer: Neal Rosenthal, Select Vineyards, Shekomeko, NY; tel. (800) 910-1990