As so many tasting notes in this issue indicate, 1991 was an exceptional vintage in France's southern Languedoc-Roussillon region. Unlike most of northern France, this region had no problems with the rain that plagued many of France's vignerons. This domaine also exhibits a sure touch with red wines. Both the Grenache and Syrah have been aged in small oak barrels, which perhaps works better with the Syrah than the Grenache. While I did not detect any evidence of new oak in the Grenache, the 1990 Syrah reveals copious quantities of toast and vanillin married to its minty, cassis aromas. The wine offers good richness, medium body, and light tannins in the finish. Drinkable now, it should hold well for another 3-4 years. Importers: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA and Blanchon Cellars, Ft. Washington, PA.