($35, Cynthia Hurley French Wines): Couly-Dutheil is among the top–if not the top–producer of Chinon.  And although he has a more expensive bottling, their Clos de l’Echo is always my favorite of his offerings.  This single vineyard wine from a south-facing rocky slope takes its name from the echo generated between it and the château in Chinon. This is a substantial wine–at least for Chinon–reflective of the excellent 2005 vintage.  An attractive, smoky, herbal quality adds complexity.  The fine tannins are still apparent at this stage, but well integrated and not astringent.  Although enjoyable now for its youthful exuberance, it’s better suited for cellaring to allow its complexity to emerge. 93 Michael Apstein Dec 29, 2009