The 2007 Gigondas Les Espalines Cuvee Romaine is composed of 65-75% Grenache and the balance Mourvedre and Syrah, all from 50+-year-old vines, its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by notes of powdered rock, ink, graphite, blueberries, and boysenberries. Possessing a striking minerality, full-bodied richness, very good acidity, and sweet tannins, it is a beautifully built, pure wine to enjoy over the next 10-12 years. The stars in Patrick Lesec’s porfolio are the superb Chateauneuf du Pape cuvees he fashions, but there are also some stunning bargains for shrewd consumers. By the way, Lesec chose not to produce any Chateauneuf du Papes or Gigondas in 2008.Importer: Chemin des Vins, Sherborn, MA; tel. (508) 545-1532, who distributes to wholesalers in 20 different states. Readers are advised to call them for availability in their region.