A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignan, the 2012 Cairanne Grands Classiques shows it Carignan component with loads of leather, wild herbs, pepper and background funkiness. Medium-bodied, soft and supple, with an upfront, fruit loaded feel, it nevertheless has fine tannin and solid all-around balance. It should drink nicely for 3-5 years. No known American Importer.

Serious, brooding nose. Fruit, minerals and spices all there. Blackberry fruit, lots of structure. Needs time, but very good.

The 2005 Cairanne Grands Classiques is riper, longer, and moves stylistically in the direction of the Galifay. It shows sweet black cherries and a hint of currants with some licorice, pepper, and roasted herbs. It is medium-bodied, very Provencal, and capable of lasting 8-10 years. This estate, which is located in Cairanne, does its best work from the vineyards in and about that area. I tasted three cuvees of Cairanne and two cuvees of Cotes du Rhone, and all of the 2005s merit consideration.Importer: Vignobles Select, Laurel, MD; tel. (301) 362-4398

The 2004 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Cairanne Grands Classiques reveals an earthy austerity and a relatively short finish. Importer: Vignobles Select, Laurel, MD; tel. (301) 362-4398

The 2003 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Cairanne Grands Classiques exhibits a deep plum/ruby color and resiny notes interwoven with cherries, plums, and spice box. It is a medium-bodied wine that is surprisingly elegant for a 2003. Importer: Vignobles Select, Laurel, MD; tel. (301) 362-4398