The 2006 Mister Moreved (79% Mourvedre and 21% Grenache) appears to be Core’s take on the Mediterranean appellation of Bandol. Hints of tree bark, fresh porcini mushrooms, red and black currants, and cherries are found in this medium-bodied, backward, tannic 2006. It possesses plenty of personality and character, and will benefit from another year or so of bottle age. Drink it over the following 5-7 years. These wines often need time to settle down given what is clearly an artisanal, non-interventionalistic winemaking style.Tel. (805) 714-5057; Fax (805) 938-7567

Readers looking for a California version of the Mourvedre-dominated French Bandols should check out the dark ruby-hued 2004 Mr. Moreved, a blend of primarily Mourvedre with a dollop of Grenache. A brilliant, although controversial offering, it exhibits a singular, distinctive bouquet of damp earth, truffles, underbrush, forest floor, black cherries, and raspberries. In the mouth, there are loads of flowers, blueberries, and briery, berry fruit, medium to full body, and light to moderate tannin. It is a gorgeous red to drink over the next 5-7 years. Tel. (805) 714-5057