Pesquie’s top cuvee, the 2005 Quintessence, comes from 80% old vine Syrah and 20% Grenache aged in new French oak for 12 months before being bottled with no fining or filtration. This is an opaque purple-hued, classic, cool climate Syrah from southern France. The higher elevation gives the wine great acidity as well as an extraordinary bouquet of acacia flowers, creme de cassis, blackberries, tar, licorice, and spice. Deep, full-bodied, and layered, this gorgeous offering should drink beautifully for 5-7 years. This is the benchmark estate for fabulous wine in the Cotes du Ventoux. Even with the weak American dollar, it can still be purchased for a song. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565