Much more evolved than the 2005 but almost as powerful is the 2004 Vacqueyras Les Genestes, which is a blend of 55% Grenache and 45% Syrah. A powerful nose of roasted herbs, licorice, scorched earth, and sweet black cherry and creme de cassis notes are offered up by this wine, which is spicy, medium-bodied, but savory and mouthfilling. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083

Much more evolved than the 2005 but almost as powerful is the 2004 Vacqueyras Les Genestes, which is a blend of 55% Grenache and 45% Syrah. A powerful nose of roasted herbs, licorice, scorched earth, and sweet black cherry and creme de cassis notes are offered up by this wine, which is spicy, medium-bodied, but savory and mouthfilling. Drink it over the next 5-6 years.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083