The more powerful, opaque ruby/purple-tinged 2008 Terre d’Argence is composed of 85% Syrah and the rest Grenache and Carignan (75% aged in tank and 25% in neutral French oak). With abundant garrigue, plum, licorice, black currant, and black cherry fruit as well as silky tannins, this broad, deep, soft 2008 should drink well for 2-3 years. Costieres de Nimes, an appellation centered around the ancient Roman settlement of Nimes, just south of Chateauneuf du Pape, remains one of France’s top sources for value wines. Chateau Mourgues du Gres has been producing successful wines for as long as I’ve been tasting in this region, and their current portfolio includes two strong whites, two strong roses, and a bevy of delicious reds. The 2009 Fleur d’Eglantine rose includes 30% Mourvedre and 10% Syrah, whereas the 2009 Galets Rose has 40% Syrah and much less Mourvedre. Both wines contain 50% Grenache. Both are outstanding roses that are vinified in stainless steel and bottled early to preserve their fruit and freshness.Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Coatesville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800; fax (610) 486-6452

Slightly fuller, with undeniable minerality as well as a more exotic character, the 2008 Terre d’Argence blanc is composed of 50% Viognier, 30% Roussanne, and the rest Marsanne and Grenache Blanc. Approximately one-fourth of this cuvee is aged in French oak, and the rest in vat. More honeysuckle, white peach, and currant notes make an appearance in this medium-bodied, elegant, authoritatively fruity, stylish wine. Drink it over the next year. Costieres de Nimes, an appellation centered around the ancient Roman settlement of Nimes, just south of Chateauneuf du Pape, remains one of France’s top sources for value wines. Chateau Mourgues du Gres has been producing successful wines for as long as I’ve been tasting in this region, and their current portfolio includes two strong whites, two strong roses, and a bevy of delicious reds. The 2009 Fleur d’Eglantine rose includes 30% Mourvedre and 10% Syrah, whereas the 2009 Galets Rose has 40% Syrah and much less Mourvedre. Both wines contain 50% Grenache. Both are outstanding roses that are vinified in stainless steel and bottled early to preserve their fruit and freshness.Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Coatesville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800; fax (610) 486-6452