While 2002 was a lesser vintage, you would never know it from tasting the 2002 Alion. Saturated purple in color, it offers up an exotic nose of coconut, espresso, herbs, black currants and cherries. Rich and complex on the palate with lots of glycerin and layers of black fruit flavors, it has a pure, long finish that goes on and on. Importer: Christopher Cannan, Europvin; www.europvin.com

and pretty dense for an ’02, with sweet aromas of baked plums, blueberry, sandalwood and exotic spices. The palate is ripe and fairly pure, showing black cherry and dark plum flavors. Really good for an off year, with a touch of spice, chocolate and vanilla. Not a complicated RdD; best from 2008–2010. ——M.S.(6/1/2007)—— 90