The 2007 Cotes du Rhone Mon Coeur is sensational, offering superb purity, texture, and richness. It should drink well for 5-7 years. Jean-Louis Chave owns a small negociant operation that produces two wines, a St.-Joseph from the north and this Cotes du Rhone, a blend of Grenache and Syrah from mostly Rasteau and Cairanne.Importer: David Shiverick, Los Angeles, CA; (213) 483-5900

This has character, showing a dark, burly edge to the bittersweet cocoa and mulled blackberry fruit, with a coffee-tinged finish. Hints of garrigue and mineral flitter through as well. Should open nicely with brief cellaring. Drink now through 2010. 7,000 cases made. -JM