2008 M. Chapoutier Cote Rotie La Mordoree Rouge

Despite having more structure and tannin than the top vintages of this cuvee, the 1993 La Mordoree has turned out to be among the finest wines from the northern Rhone in this dreadful vintage. It possesses an impressive dark ruby/purple color, a powerful, provocative nose of Asian spices, toasty oak, and plenty of black fruits. Medium- to full-bodied and tannic, with a fruity mid-palate, this wine is approachable, but it will benefit from another 2-4 years of cellaring; it should keep for 15 years.