The 1990 Cote Rotie exhibited a few of the telltale characteristics of this appellation (smoky fruit and spice). Light and lacking concentration and depth, it displayed medium body and a finish that tailed off. This is a charming, albeit lighter-styled Cote Rotie for drinking before 1999. Last tasted 9/95.

In 1989, the regular cuvee of Cote Rotie is straightforward, soft, and commercial, but tasty and cleanly made. It should be drunk up. Last tasted 9/95.

The 1988 is slightly less concentrated than the 1989, with more acidity, and harder tannins. However, the impression is one of rich cassis fruit wrapped intelligently in new oak, with no shortage of ferocious tannin. It will keep for another decade, but will the fruit outlast the tannin? Last tasted 6/95.