The leaner, more austere 2004 Vacqueyras Grandy is neither as intense nor as powerful as the 2003. A Patrick Lesec Selection, various American importers, including Chemin des Vins, Sherborn, MA 508 545 1532; Vermont Wine Merchants, Burlington, VT 802 658 6771;Noble House, New York, NY 212 736 0040; William Harrison Imports, Manassas,VA 703 815 9463; The Stacole Company, Boca Raton, FL 561 998 0029; Fine Vines, Melrose Park, IL 708 343 6702; Silver State, Reno, NV 775 331 3400 and Wine Warehouse, Commerce, CA 323 724 1700

The deep ruby/purple-colored 2003 Vacqueyras Grandy (75% Grenache and 25% Syrah) possesses sweet, chewy fruit and body, abundant tannin, and plenty of depth and intensity. Its low acidity and exotic characteristics suggest consumption over the next 5-7 years is warranted. A Patrick Lesec Selection, various American importers, including Stacole Fine Wines, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 998-0029,Classic Wines, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799, Fine Vines LLC, Maywood, IL; tel. (708) 343-5901, and Associated Wine Distributors, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-8048