The Croak Rotie (a play on Rhone's Cote-Rotie), comprised of 85% Syrah and 15% Viognier, is an affordable and well made alternative to the Rhone counterpart. Red cherry and raspberry fruit dominate the robust palate with lovely nuances of rosemary, cocoa and coffee granules. With 12,000 cases produced, this wine should be easy to find and won't disappoint.——L.B.(11/1/2009)—— 85