Equally strong in a more challenging vintage is the 2006 Gigondas Cuvee Romaine Les Espalines. Blue and red fruits intermixed with floral and forest floor notes are present in this medium-bodied wine. With good acidity, ripe tannin, and a nicely textured mouthfeel, it can be consumed over the next 8-10 years. Patrick Lesec continues to make a fine name for his negociant blends from the southern Rhone. His Chateauneuf du Papes, all strong performers in 2007 and 2006, were reviewed in issue #179.Patrick Lesec Selection’s agent for the U.S. market is Chemin des Vins, Sherborn, MA; tel. (508) 545-1532