Colombier Crozes-Hermitage Rouge Cuvee Gaby 2009 is made from 100% Syrah. Named in honor of Florent Viale's father, Gabriel, this selection of old plots sees new wood and has the stuffing to take it. Denser than the regular Crozes rouge, like a dry vintage port with blueberry, morello cherry and cocoa powder flavors, well-oaked with typical roasted meat nuances. Vibrant, elegant blueberry flavors. Long finish, hint of black pepper on the palate.
 

"Even better is the 2009 Crozes-Hermitage Cuvee Gaby, which exhibits more forest floor and floral characteristics intermixed with olive, truffle and spice box undertones, creme de cassis, charcoal and earth. This dense, full-bodied, voluptuously textured Crozes will age effortlessly for 10-15 years." 92 Points Wine Advocate #198 Dec 2011

Proprietor Viale is one of the best in the northern Rhone, but for some reason, this estate remains under most consumers’ radar.
 

"Atypically round for a Crozes-Hermitage - a result of the vintage - but immediately attractive, with ample weight backing up the smoky, bacony notes and plummy fruit. Finishes long and richly textured, with hints of oak. Drink now-2020. - JC"
- Wine Enthusiast (July 2012), 91 pts + Editor's Choice

"The opaque inky/blue/black-colored 2009 Crozes-Hermitage Cuvee Gaby is even more concentrated, offering up notes of ink, graphite, meat, incense, herbs, blackberries and cassis. Full-bodied and dense, it is a seriously endowed wine that should drink well for 10-12+ years."
- Wine Advocate issue 193 (February 2011), 90-93 pts