The 2006 Vacqueyras Cuvee Speciale is a 50-50 blend of Grenache and Syrah. It exhibits a deeper ruby/purple hue as well as more sweet strawberry and black cherry fruit notes interwoven with spicy, resiny notes that nicely complement the full-bodied, spicy style of this wine. There are no hard edges in either 2006. It is best drunk over the next 4-5 years. Domaine de la Charbonniere's proprietor, Michel Maret, also fashions sensational Chateauneuf du Papes at this estate. Maret owns nearly 12 acres in Vacqueyras and these cuvees represent an insider's value pick as the wines sell for half the price of the Chateauneuf du Papes, and are often similar in quality.Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524