Perfumy, with violet, vanilla and lightly roasted coffee bean aromas giving way to a supple, elegant palate of dark cherry and plum followed by grilled herb and mineral on the finish. Impressive weight and texture for a 2002. Drink now through 2013. 7,000 cases made. –JM

The straightforward 2002 Hermitage exhibits scents of herbs, raspberries, and cherries, medium body, a steely mineral character, tart acidity, and a short finish.