The exceptional 1999 Cotes du Rhone Village Cairanne Cuvee Maximilian (a blend of 55% Grenache, 25% Mourvedre, and 20% Syrah) achieved an unprecedented 14.4% natural alcohol. It was aged in barrique before being bottled unfiltered. A sensational value, it offers a dense purple color as well as a sweet nose of kirsch liqueur, black raspberries, spice box, herbs, and licorice. Ripe, full-bodied, and super-concentrated, with excellent freshness and harmony, this intense, gorgeously succulent Cairanne should drink well for 7-8 years, although my instincts suggest it may live even longer. Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel (610) 486-0800