M Chapoutier, Crozes Ermitage Les Varonniers 2001 (3L)

"Followed by a dense, roasted herb, melted licorice, black currant, cassis, and tapenade-scented bouquet. Deep, rich, and full-bodied, it reveals more muscle and concentration than its older sibling." - Robert Parker

"Brooding aromas of plum, gunflint, hot stones, mint, nuts, charcoal and woodsmoke. Rich, dense, silky and very ripe; a wonderfully fleshy Crozes that really spreads out to coat the palate. As round, sweet and plush as this rather massive wine is, it's still youthfully unevolved. Finishes long and aromatic, with big, tongue-dusting tannins and hints of espresso and nutty oak." - Vinous