From the sun-baked village of Rasteau, the 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau Cuvee Marc is proprietor Besnardeau’s blend of 50% Grenache, 25% Syrah, and 25% Mourvedre. It is aged in a combination of concrete vats, older demi-muids, and small barrels. The biggest wine, it reveals the greatest expression of Grenache in its chocolaty, kirsch liqueur, licorice, tobacco leaf, and garrigue characteristics. Extremely full-bodied, muscular, and dense, but neither hard nor astringent, this is a super-concentrated, beautifully pure wine possessing tremendous focus and vibrancy. It is another great example of this amazing vintage in the southern Rhone.This superb estate has fashioned outstanding 2007s, all remarkable wine bargains. They are typical of the fabulous 2007 vintage in the southern Rhone.Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800

The 2007 Cotes du Rhone Villages Rasteau Cuvee Marc is another terrific wine from this top-notch estate. Made from 50% Grenache and 25% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre, aged all in demi-muids, it has a ripe, full-bodied, concentrated style as well as classic notes of ripe black fruits (currants, black cherries), chocolate, garrigue and spice. It’s drinking at point and ideal for enjoying over the coming 4-5 years.

Bitter chocolate and raisin fruit. Soft tannins. Concentrated, inky style gives quite a mouthful.