Montpeyroux, St.-Chinian, Pic St.-Loup, and Costieres des Nimes are four backwater regions of France that are turning out extraordinary wines at bargain-basement prices. This blend of equal parts Grenache and Syrah (50% was aged in new oak casks and 50% in tank), is a stunning wine, as well as a worthy candidate for buying by the boat-load. The wine exhibits an opaque ruby/purple color, followed by a big, Provencal nose of kirsch, cherries, cassis, pepper, and a notion of garrigue (that herbes de Provence/earthy concoction). Amazingly deep, full-bodied, and oozing with fruit, this wine possesses superb purity, complexity, and that savory, seamless feeling that is the result of perfect integration among its component parts. This is a sumptuous, southern Rhone-styled red for drinking over the next 5-6 years, possibly longer. A great value.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083