Readers looking for chocolate, espresso, and scorched earth characteristics should check out the deep ruby/purple-colored 2001 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau Vieilles Vignes (a blend of 65% Grenache, 25% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre). More monolithic than the Cairanne, it is dominated by creme de cassis and chocolatey notes. As in most Rasteau wines, the tannin is elevated. Deep, chewy, and impressive, it requires 2-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 10-12. Importer: a Patrick Lesec Selection, various American importers, including Stacole Fine Wines, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 998-0039, Classic Wines, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799; Fine Vines LLC, Maywood, IL; tel. (708) 343-5901; Associated Wine Distributors, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-8048; and Vintage ’59 Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-9218

Readers looking for chocolate, espresso, and scorched earth characteristics should check out the deep ruby/purple-colored 2001 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau Vieilles Vignes (a blend of 65% Grenache, 25% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre). More monolithic than the Cairanne, it is dominated by creme de cassis and chocolatey notes. As in most Rasteau wines, the tannin is elevated. Deep, chewy, and impressive, it requires 2-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 10-12. Importer: a Patrick Lesec Selection, various American importers, including Stacole Fine Wines, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 998-0039, Classic Wines, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799; Fine Vines LLC, Maywood, IL; tel. (708) 343-5901; Associated Wine Distributors, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-8048; and Vintage ’59 Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 966-9218