A blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah, the 2004 Cotes du Rhone-Villages shows deep, chewy cassis and black cherry notes intermixed with some licorice, smoke, and underbrush. It is elegant, ripe, medium to full-bodied, and tasty. It should drink well for 2-3 years. Importers: David Hinkle, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 848-8910, and a Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers, including: Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300 and Diamond Wine Merchant, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897

The 2001 Cotes du Rhone-Villages is a superb expression of this estate’s winemaking abilities. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by classic aromas of raspberries and kirsch liqueur. This fleshy, pure, deep, full-flavored Cotes du Rhone-Villages should drink well for 5-7 years. Importers: David Hinkle, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 848-8910, and a Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers, including: Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300 and Diamond Wine Merchant, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897

Serious, structured, and muscular is the 2000 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Clos du Caillou. This opaque purple-colored offering is sweet, rich, and pure. With gobs of creme de cassis, liquid mineral, pepper, and spice characteristics, it should drink well in another year, and last for a decade. Importers: David Hinkle, North Berkeley Imports, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 848-8910, and a Christopher Cannan Selection, various American importers, including: Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300 and Diamond Wine Merchant, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 567-9897