The 2017 Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Romaine was scheduled to be bottled the day after my visit. A 50-50 blend of Grenache and Syrah aged in concrete, it shows bright mixed berry aromas and flavors and comes across crisp and taut, tannic and intense for a cuvée that's normally quite accessible young. It should be on the longer-lived side, drinking well though 2024 or so.

I guess we can’t expect the 2008 Cuvee Romaine to be as brilliant as the 2007 (a sure-fire winner should any readers be able to find remaining stocks), but this custom cuvee from importer Eric Solomon is from a good rather than exceptional vintage. Actually declassified Vacqueyras, it is a blend of 65% Grenache, 25% Mourvedre, and 10% Syrah. Slightly more rustic than the 2007, the 2008 exhibits sweet black fruits intermixed with notions of forest floor, earth, pepper, and garrigue. Gamy, rich, and chewy, with austere tannins, the overall impression is one of full-bodied power and plenty of flavor. Enjoy it over the next 3-5 years. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565