From schistic sites in Montner, Depardieu’s 2007 Cotes du Roussillon (representing one of his several joint projects with Bernard Magrez) represents a locally typical blend of Grenache, Carignan, and Syrah. Creme de cassis, cherry liqueur and caramel dusted with cinnamon and nutmeg mark the nose as well as an ample, creamy palate. This strikes me as more harmonious and its wooden frame more supportive and flattering to its fruit than in the case of Magrez’s own similarly extravagantly ripe, ostensibly top Roussillon wine (see under his name elsewhere in this report), but there is still considerable heat and a bit of raw wood character putting a dry spot in what is otherwise an almost confectionary finish. Perhaps more personality will emerge and the fruit will hold its own against incursions of astringency that are showing around the edges. Or perhaps my sample of the assembled wine from tank was not entirely representative. Time will tell.Importer: MHW, Ltd., Manhasset, NY; tel. (516) 869 9170