Cut from the same cloth as the Cuvee Bellevue, with more body and herbes de Provence as well as a slightly earthy, leathery component, is the 2003 VDP Petit Crau. A tank-aged blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre, it should drink well for 1-3 years. A Patrick Lesec Selection, various American importers, including Stacole Fine Wines, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 993-0029, Classic Wines, Boston, MA; tel. (617) 469-5799, and Fine Vines LLC, Maywood, IL; tel. (708) 343-5901

The non-vintage Petit Crau, a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Merlot from 2002 and 2003, is a tasty, elegant effort displaying a medium dark ruby color, notes of berry fruit and spice, and an easy-going palate. It is ideal for bistros and brasseries looking for immediately drinkable wines with Provencal characteristics. 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