While dominated by Grenache (70%), this gorgeous Cotes du Rhone-Villages also includes a small amount of Syrah (25%) and Mourvedre (5%), all from 47-year-old vines. It possesses a dense ruby/purple color as well as a big, peppery, meaty bouquet with abundant kirsch liqueur notes backed up by a full-bodied, fleshy, succulent style with good definition. This is a heck of a mouthful of wine for under $20. It should drink well for 3-4 years. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant Importer, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524; Fax (510) 528-7026

The 1999 Beaumes de Venise, aged in equal parts old foudres and tank, is a blend of 60-year old Grenache vines (75%) and the rest mostly Syrah, with a tiny dollop of Mourvedre. It is a big, ruggedly constructed, dense ruby/purple-colored wine with tangy acidity, robust black cherry and blackberry fruit intermixed with pepper, melted asphalt, and licorice. It will offer a mouthful of juicy, exuberant, robust wine over the next 4-5 years. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel (510) 524-1524