Moving to the reds, and a smoking good blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah that was aged all in older barrels, the 2011 Vacqueyras Vieilles Vignes displays impressive levels of peppery spice, kirsch, dried underbrush and assorted floral notes to go with a medium to full-bodied, voluptuously styled palate. Mouth-filling, with no hard edges and seriously pure fruit, it can be consumed now or cellared for 7-8 years. Drink now-2023. This serious estate is run by Laurent Brotte, with consulting help from Philippe Cambie. The wines offer high quality across the board and can represent fantastic values. Various American importers including Chrissa Imports, South San Francisco, CA; tel. (650) 877-8460; Opici Imports, Glen Rock, NJ; tel. (201) 689-3256; Margaux and Associates Fine Wines and Spirits, Dallas, TX; tel. (214) 380-1731; and Transat Trade, Gardena, CA; tel. (310) 516-6799

Perfumy, with sandalwood and rooibos tea notes out front, followed by lightly steeped plum and cherry fruit. The fine-grained structure lends a slightly firm edge to the finish. Drink now through 2014. 100 cases made, 50 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Vacqueyras Select to Add