This is the second vintage with which I have been super-impressed by the quality of wines from proprietor Collard's vineyard south of Avignon. The 1996 Costieres de Nimes (a blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache) is a tank-fermented wine with a deep ruby/purple color, a smoky, peppery, herbes de Provence, and black cherry-scented nose, bold, rich, spicy, surprisingly intense flavors, a supple texture, medium body, and good length. This fleshy wine should drink well for 3-4 years.

The 1995 Red, made from 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache, exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, a big, smoky, Syrah-scented nose, deep, jammy fruit flavors, excellent purity, low acidity, and fine ripeness and length. The 13% alcohol is well-hidden behind the wine's concentration. Drink it over the next 2-3 years.Wow! Another terrific discovery from Costieres de Nimes, that sun-drenched portion of Provence south of Avignon. This estate, which has a vineyard blanketed with the football-sized galet ronde (large oblong-shaped rocks), is run by Francois Collard.Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel (610) 932-2745