The 2004 Cuvee Confiance Rasteau reveals a big, rich style with plenty of chocolate, barbecue spice, black cherry liqueur, herb, and earth characteristics. Medium to full-bodied and powerful, but soft enough to be approached, it should evolve nicely for 10-12 years. Although the irrepressible Andre Romero hardly needed help from Bordeaux, he has brought in Stephane Derenoncourt, the well-known wine guru of St.-Emilion and Pomerol as a consultant. Romero has purchased some parcels in both Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape, but his glories remain his offerings from the ancient, sun-drenched/roasted, old Grenache vines of Rasteau. Romero is one of the region’s more modern winemakers, aging his top cuvees in small oak barrels. However, these wines easily absorb their wood component given their tremendous concentration and power. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565

The 2004 Cuvee Confiance Rasteau reveals a big, rich style with plenty of chocolate, barbecue spice, black cherry liqueur, herb, and earth characteristics. Medium to full-bodied and powerful, but soft enough to be approached, it should evolve nicely for 10-12 years.Although the irrepressible Andre Romero hardly needed help from Bordeaux, he has brought in Stephane Derenoncourt, the well-known wine guru of St.-Emilion and Pomerol as a consultant. Romero has purchased some parcels in both Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape, but his glories remain his offerings from the ancient, sun-drenched/roasted, old Grenache vines of Rasteau. Romero is one of the region’s more modern winemakers, aging his top cuvees in small oak barrels. However, these wines easily absorb their wood component given their tremendous concentration and power.Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565