Bottled with neither fining nor filtration, this blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Shiraz, and 15% Cinsault exhibits a southern France-like nose of hot road tar, truffles, dried Provencal herbs, loamy soil, cassis, and black cherries. There is some gritty tannin to be resolved, hence the modest score and question mark. I enjoyed the wine's flavors, purity, and texture, but its astringency and disjointed personality are worrisome. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2010. Importer: Benjamin Hammerschlag, Epicurean Wines, Seattle, WA; tel. (206) 923-1376