Robert Parker Jr. calls the 2007 vintage in Southern Rhone the vintage of his lifetime. This peaked my attention. If you recall, Parker was a huge fan of the '82 Bordeaux vintage. There were many critics who disagreed with him. It turned out that the '82 vintage became a highly sought after Bordeaux putting Parker on the map. He has proved over time that his palate and judgment is quite accurate. This is not to say that you have to agree with all of his scores. Many times I find that a wine that he gave a huge score to is quite average. So before you go out and invest in a wine, like a doctor I suggest that you get a second or third opinion, especially if it is an expensive wine. I recently tried this wine while I was watching the second game of the Lakers Houston series in the playoffs. I was disgusted with the play of both teams as they showed very poor sportsmanship. My mood was sour but not this wine. It was exceptional! At first it was a little closed, but as it opened up it became a wine to put away or enjoy immensely now. A very beefy, smokey nose with hints of flowers and pepper. Very full in the palate with dark berries, olives, lavender and some charcoal tones. Good acidity and freshness with a hint of mint on the backside from beginning to end. The wine coats the palate with a finish that lingers long after the last swallow. The NBA may be full of players that do not appreciate the rules of the game, and the privilege of playing in the league but the 2007 vintage of Southern Rhone is right on and is to be appreciated with some of the best wines that have ever come out of France. Like the '61 Bordeaux vintage, I miss the class of Michael Jordan.   Stan