2000 Belle Pere & Fils CROZES-HERMITAGE "Les Pierrelles" (Northern Rhone, France)

A syrah-based wine from France, this guy was earthy and very good. Black ruby color with virtually no browning or fading. At first, soft, funky, earthy scents predominated (everyone at the table agreed it smelled like a hair perm -- given my follicular challenges, I wouldn't know). Over time, however, blackberryish fruit and blood-like scents emerged, with some almost mushroomy smells underneath. Very distinctive and full of character. Excellent balance, and a velvety texture, with good length. 88. I think this was around $15 at Richard's on San Felipe several months ago in the "sale bin."