2011 Perrin & Fils Vinsobres Les Cornuds

More serious and endowed with more muscle and richness is the 2011 Perrin Vinsobres Les Cornuds. This wine comes from the very cool northern sector of the Cotes du Rhone appellation, which is a treasure trove for Syrah. The Perrins vinify the Syrah in truncated tanks and then age it in barrel, while the Grenache is fermented and aged in stainless steel, with blending taking place after six months. This beautiful 2011 displays plenty of black cherry fruit and lavender as well as hints of blackberry, licorice and graphite. Medium-bodied, richly fruity and offering loads of perfume, this is a wine to drink over the next several years. Of course, Jeb Dunnuck is covering the wines of the remarkable Perrin family, who own Chateau Beaucastel and also make the phenomenally successful Cote du Ventoux and Cote du Luberon La Vieille Ferme. They have also partnered with Robert Haas for their California project, Tablas Creek. These are two just-released cuvees that merit interest from shrewd consumers looking to maximize their value. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802; fax (205) 980-0408 ; www.vineyardbrands.com