From (50% new) barrel, the 2007 Coteaux du Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup Grande Cuvee is attractively scented with cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and resin, along with sweetly ripe black fruits. But there is a slightly gummy sensation on a creamily-textured palate, and a sacrifice of clarity, minerality, and refreshment, virtues prominent in virtually all of the other wines at this address. The finish is broad and sweet, but with a slightly drying spot seemingly contributed by the wood. Based on past renditions I tasted, the aforementioned virtues and drawbacks are typical for this cuvee, but further carnal and mineral dimensions may well emerge. At the very least, this will hold satisfactorily for at least 4-6 years, indeed, the estate does not even release this wine until it has had 2-3 years in bottle.Bernard Durand and Regis Valentin continue to render distinctively delicious wines that offer outstanding value of a sort not always to be found in the increasingly renowned Pic Saint-Loup sub-appellation.Imported by Hand Picked Selections, Warrenton, VA; tel. (540) 347 9400