Starting off, both the 2011 and 2012 Vacqueyras Perle de Rosese were excellent, with Provencal aromas and flavors, medium-bodied richness and juicy acidity. The 2012 was deeper in color, with a tad more fruit, but both play in the same stylistic ball park and quality range. One of my favorite southern Rhone estates, Montirius, which is run by the passionate Christine and Eric Saurel, fashions classic Gigondas and Vacqueyras from their roughly 143 acres under vine, 40 of which are in Gigondas. There is absolutely no wood whatsoever used and aging occurs all in concrete tanks. The wines show classic profiles and are always well made. The 2012s are a step up over the 2011s and offers additional richness and texture. Importers: Ruby Wines, Avon, MA; tel. (508) 588-7007; and Winebow, Montvale, NJ; tel. (201) 445-0620