The intensely hot summer of 2003 resulted in a vintage with dramatically shriveled yields in many vineyards throughout the Northern Rhône. Wines were of baked fruit and port-like intensity. The 2004 vintage was seen as a return to normal or a more "classic" vintage. However, in the fall of '04, many growers discovered that the vines had been severely stressed by the previous year's heat. As a result, the yields were dramatically low. The combination of mild weather and low yield created a wine that is harmonious and deep at the same time.

This Crozes-Hermitage holds a beautiful ruby-like brilliance in the glass and carries generous aromas of crushed violets, cassis, plums, and black ink. The palate is drenched in black fruit flavors, a suggestion of baked earth, clay tones, and warm minerality with a pleasant buoyancy playing off the acidity and elegant tannins. Although young, it is drinking beautifully. Serve with leg of lamb, roasted chicken (with plenty of garlic and rosemary) or grilled Kielbasa.

—Donald