(91-92+)/100
Tasted as a pre-assemblage from barrel, the Hecht & Bannier 2010 Cotes du Roussillon Villages is colorfully fruited with suggestions of black raspberry, blackberry, cassis, and blueberry, all alluringly wreathed in heliotrope and lily. Overtly chalky and smoky crushed stone and peat notes serve for counterpoint on a richly-textured, ripely-fruited yet vivacious palate, and hints of salt and dark chocolate at once add saliva-inducement, invigoration, and depth to a long finish. This impressive exemplar of vintage – not to mention Roussillon – virtues will hopefully gain in stature in the completion of its elevage and ought to be worth following for the better part of a decade.fruitiness. US$22
