772 | Wine | France | Page 3

"A sexy, seductive, up-front effort revealing loads of berry fruit along with hints of Provencal herbs, licorice and smoked meats. Evolved, ripe, round, full-bodied and loaded, it can be drunk now or cellared for a decade." 90-92 pts, reviewed by Robert Parker.

"Firm and finely meshed, with hints of passion fruit and pineapple mixing with poached apple, almond pastry and fleur de sel. Mouthwatering and lightly smoky on the lingering, refined finish."

"Vibrant, refreshing, and crisp are the first three words that come to mind. Loads of lime and lemon jump out of the glass, along with flowers and fresh cut grass. It's medium-bodied, with more of those lime notes, along with white peaches and a little pineapple. Try this with fish tacos or just sip it in the shade on a nice warm afternoon. Why this grape isn't more popular is beyond me." - Trey Johnson, Binny's Champaign

"Lightly toasty, with a lively bead and flavors of poached pear, dried apricot, brioche and honey. Displays chalkiness without being too angular, and culminates in a lasting, apple-tinged finish."

"Crisp and savory, with citrus, white berry and gooseberry flavors accented by plenty of slate and white pepper notes. Fresh finish."

"Sweet red and black currant fruit, spice box and herb aromas jump from the glass of this dark plum/garnet-hued 2008. As in most vintages, this is an equal part blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Soft and complex, it should be consumed over the next 5-6 years." -Robert Parker

"Bright orange-pink. Suave, highly perfumed aromas of strawberry, cherry, potpourri and musky herbs, with a mineral overtone. Juicy, focused, refreshingly bitter red fruit flavors are complemented by a note of toasty lees. Closes with lingering spiciness, very good precision and a persistent note of juicy red berries."

"This dark ruby/purple-tinged sleeper of the vintage offers a sweet bouquet of black currants, underbrush, licorice and berry fruit. Medium to full-bodied with excellent depth, good acidity and an endearing roundness, it can be enjoyed now and over the next 8-10 years."-Robert Parker

"An explosion of berries back by great minerality. Lively and fresh. Great as an aperitif. Also goes very well with salad, seafood and white meats."