1999 - Cotes du Rhone Syrah, de Fonsalette

(nearly 14% alcohol) Saturated black ruby to the rim. Brooding aromas of blackberry, minerals, tar and game. Very dense and sweet in the mouth, with highly aromatic flavors of black fruits, violet, licorice, leather, meat and pepper. Very long and gamey on the back end, which features big, tongue-dusting tannins. Reynaud noted that this cuvee features a particularly successful combination of slightly roasted grapes and those that were distinctly higher in acidity. Southern Rhone syrah of rare class and complexity.