The 2005 Costieres de Nimes Tradition, a blend of 45% Syrah, 25% Grenache, and the rest Mourvedre and Carignan, aged mostly in tank with some exposure to barrel (only 15%), is a straightforward, bistro-styled red with notes of Provencal herbs, cherries, strawberries, and licorice. This medium-bodied wine should be drunk over the next 2-3 years. One of the best estates in this up-and-coming region, known for high quality and fair prices, is Chateau Mas Neuf. It is a large estate with proprietor Luc Baudet owning 150+ acres of vineyard. The quality of these wines is consistently good and the prices reasonable.Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9228