The 2003 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Vinsobres Vieilles Vignes Les Hauts de Julien is spectacular. From a 90-98-year old, 7.5-acre parcel planted with equal parts Grenache and Syrah, 85% is aged in tank and 15% in barrel. It boasts a dense purple color as well as a wonderfully sweet perfume of cassis, kirsch, crushed rocks, flowers, and earth. With considerable intensity, tremendous texture, beautiful purity and length as well as sweet tannin, this brilliant offering (only 6,000 bottles produced) should hit its peak in 2-4 years, and last for 12-15. It is a candidate for the finest Cotes du Rhone of the vintage.(Wine Advocate)

91–93 points