More concentrated than a typical vintage, the 2003 Crozes-Hermitage Les Launes offers loads of raspberry and cherry fruit as well as glycerin, heady alcohol, and a sweet, plump personality. It will drink well for 3-4 years. It would be a tasty introduction to Crozes-Hermitage on a restaurant wine list.

(this and the following 2003 reds were recently racked and assembled) Full medium ruby. Very primary, almost grapey aromas of black fruits, smoke, flint, pepper, minerals and animal fur. Sweet, rich, ripe and supple, with expressive flavors of black cherry, leather and game. Finishes firmly tannic and lively. Vinified in a concrete vat. Today I find this considerably richer than the 2001 example.