Ermitage Greffieux, Maison M. Chapoutier 2007

While the 2007 Ermitage Les Greffieux is an outstanding effort, it is dwarfed by the brilliance of the 2006. An attractive dark ruby/purple color offers up notes of blueberries, blackberries, road tar, earth, and spice box. The wine possesses beautiful fruit, crisp, tart acidity, a hint of figs, and a long finish. Consume this lovely 2007 during its first two decades of life.

Ripe, voluptuous and textured, the 2007 Ermitage Les Greffieux is a sexy and delicious effort that offers serious charm. Blackberry, cassis, lavender, incense, white pepper and floral notes all emerge from the glass and it is full-bodied, nicely concentrated and mouth-filling, with a broad, supple feel. Drink it over the coming decade or so.