2006 Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Petite Ruche

[hotwine]

Wanted something different from PN to pair with cedar plank salmon grilled over oak with steamed broccoli and spinach salad, so gave this a try. Dark ruby in the glass and some serious barnyard on the nose (how the blue-blazes did those horses get in here, supposed to be nothing but COWS!) The funk blew off with air time, leaving dark red fruit on a light bed of mushrooms. More dark fruit on the palate with a hint of wild cherry, nice lingering finish. 13% alc/vol and $20.57 at Costco. We both liked it, will buy a few more for the cellar.