The 2007 Vacqueyras Cuvee Classique is a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 20% Mourvedre aged in cement tanks for eight months. A gorgeous effort, it boasts a dark plum/purple color as well as a big, sweet nose of smoked duck, soy, blackberries, licorice, and Asian spices. Full-bodied, expansive, dense, pure, and seductive, it represents the bottled essence of Provence. Enjoy it over the next 4-5 years. Owner Bernard Burle has fashioned two brilliant 2007 Vacqueyras from his 50 acres of vines.A Jack Siler Selection, Springfield, VA; tel. (703) 644-5210, various American importers.

An outstanding effort, the dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 Vacqueyras Cuvee Classique exhibits lavender, roasted herb, black cherry, loamy soil, and pepper characteristics. Medium to full-bodied and supple-textured, this delicious, pure, well-balanced 2006 can be drunk over the next 5-6 years. Proprietor Bernard Burle has 45 acres in Vacqueyras which represents half of his entire domaine in the southern Rhone.A Jack Siler Selection, Springfield, VA; tel. (703) 644-5210; various American importers.