E. Guigal : Hermitage 2002

The straightforward 2002 Hermitage exhibits scents of herbs, raspberries, and cherries, medium body, a steely mineral character, tart acidity, and a short finish. Importer: Fred Ek and Patrick Will, Ex Cellars Wine Agencies, Solvang, CA; tel. (805) 686-9153

Perfumy, with violet, vanilla and lightly roasted coffee bean aromas giving way to a supple, elegant palate of dark cherry and plum, followed by grilled herb and mineral on the finish. Impressive weight and texture for a 2002. Drink now through 2013. 7,000 cases made.

Slightly reduced, farmyardy nose. Definitely northern Rhône Syrah – more classic than 2003 – lots of acidity, pretty lean but clean and brisk and mouth-scrubbing without too much tannin. Useful for early drinking. (JR)

(bottled two weeks before my visit) Bright ruby-red. Raw currant, blackberry, pepper, iron, licorice, leather and fresh herbs on the aromatic nose. Juicy, tight and bright; not fleshy but boasts lovely restrained sweetness of fruit. Finishes quite dry and very persistent. An impressive 2002.

Big black fruit aromas on this serious, intense and concentrated wine, which is a blend from different Hermitage vineyards. It shows acidity and firm structure, with some leathery character. Great, solid dark fruits, and prominent wood flavors show how this wine has potential - aging for 10 years at least.