Perhaps the most interesting wine is the 2009 St.-Peray, which went through 100% malolactic fermentation. It is fashioned from Marsanne (from vines planted in 1910) and Roussanne (from vines planted 30+ years ago). Its opulent, light gold color is followed by intense aromas of chalk/crushed rocks, white flowers, rose petals, white peaches and apricots. Beautifully made with excellent minerality and a Chablis-like style, it should drink nicely for 2-3 years. Michel Tardieu’s 2009 red Northern Rhone offerings still have a long wait in barrel before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. They all reveal deep colors as well as abundant concentration, structure and power. I thought the best cuvees were the Cornas, St.-Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage. The Hermitage and Cornas appear capable of 15 or more years of evolution, and the Crozes-Hermitage and St.-Joseph should last at least a decade. The Cote Rotie Vieilles Vignes exhibited great fruit, but it was not a sensational wine in comparison with the other efforts.Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St.-Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661