Among the most interesting negociant wines is the 2006 Rasteau, another example of a top-notch wine from that up-and-coming appellation. Scorched earth, chocolate covered cherries, pepper, and spice are all present in this attractive wine. The great terroiriste and biodynamic farmer of the northern Rhone, Michel Chapoutier, continues to display impressive talent for turning out strong wines from the southern Rhone even though his undeniable strengths are his single-vineyard wines from the north. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

Nose has raisins and prunes. Mildly weighted, with the fruit flowing carefully. Black-cherry aftertaste, with some pepper.