D’Arenberg’s next tier of reds begins with the 2007 The Custodian Grenache. It is dark ruby-colored with a perfumed nose of spice box and cherry. Sweetly fruited and juicy, it closely resembles a high level Cotes du Rhone. On the palate, it is a bit leaner and racier in style than the past few vintages. With excellent grip and balance, it can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years. The d’Arenberg portfolio is loaded with values. The winery works with over 140 growers to fashion their superb blends. For the 2008 vintage, the entry-level The Stump Jump series has been expanded.Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

D’Arenberg’s next tier of reds begins with the 2007 The Custodian Grenache. It is dark ruby-colored with a perfumed nose of spice box and cherry. Sweetly fruited and juicy, it closely resembles a high level Cotes du Rhone. On the palate, it is a bit leaner and racier in style than the past few vintages. With excellent grip and balance, it can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years. The d’Arenberg portfolio is loaded with values. The winery works with over 140 growers to fashion their superb blends. For the 2008 vintage, the entry-level The Stump Jump series has been expanded. Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

On the quiet side for a Grenache, with reticent notes of spice, sangria and cassis. There’s the faintest grip of tannin and a crisp, strawberry-inflected finish. Drink now. ——W.E.(6/1/2010)—— 88