1 | Wine | France, Rhone Misc | Page 3

"The fabulous 2011 Cornas Granite 30 is one of the great wines of the vintage. Elegant, with a black/blue color, sweet tannin and loads of spring flowers, crushed rocks, smoked game and blackberry fruit, this textured, loaded, supple, accessible 2011 should drink nicely for 15 or more years." -Robert Parker

"Displays an inky/purple color along with a dense nose of black fruits, forest floor, acacia flowers, pepper and licorice. It possesses fabulous fruit on the attack and mid-palate, beautiful ripeness (especially for a 2011), and a soft, well-made, opulent finish."

"Reveals abundant aromas of crushed rocks, spring flowers and blue as well as black fruits in its darker, more cool climate style. It is completely different from the Grenache-dominated wines from the warmer climates of Cairanne, Rasteau, Vacqueyras or Gigondas. The impressive, deep, rich Vinsobres Les Cornuds comes from high elevation (400 feet) vineyards, and should easily age for 10 years." 90-93 pts, reviewed by Robert Parker.

"Complex, heady scents of dark berry liqueur, Asian spices, potpourri and minerals. Stains the palate with intense blackberry and cherry flavors accented by white pepper and allspice. Finishes sappy and incisive, with outstanding clarity and persistence."

"Opaque purple. Dark berry preserves on the nose and palate, with notes of black olive and licorice adding complexity. Ripe, fleshy and smooth, offering bitter cherry and cassis flavors lifted by tangy acidity. Shows good energy and lift on the finish, which features a bright kick of singed orange."

"Domaine de la Mordoree remains the reference point for how good Lirac can be. It is an appellation with tremendous potential, and a number of Chateauneuf du Pape estates are buying up vineyards in the appellation. The 2009 Lirac Cuvee de la Reine des Bois is another star from Christophe Delorme. Loads of kirsch, black currant and crushed rock notes along with a hint of spring flowers are all present in this dense purple, medium to full-bodied, delicious wine, which should drink nicely for 7-8 years."

"Vivid ruby. Textbook syrah aromas of cherry, dark berries, smoked meat and violet, with a mineral note adding vibrancy. Juicy and well-defined on the palate, offering fresh blackberry and bitter cherry flavors that expand on the back end. Finishes sweet and very long, with resonating floral and spice notes and impressive energy."