The 2007 Gigondas Costevieille reveals toasty oak and espresso notes and tasty chocolate-infused berry fruit. Attractive, elegant, and medium-bodied, it is a more modern interpretation of Gigondas to consume over the next 7-8 years. Importers: Vigneron Imports, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 530-1616; and OSLO Enterprise LLC, Takoma Park, MD; tel. (301) 326-2056

A superb wine by any standard is their 2005 Gigondas Coste Vieille. It is certainly one of the candidates for best Gigondas of the vintage. Dense ruby/purple with notes of graphite and ripe black cherry fruit intermixed with hints of blackberries, licorice, and herbs, the wine is full, rich, long, structured, but with sweet tannins. It should drink nicely for 12-15 years.Importer: Vigneron Imports, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 530-1616

One of the top wines in an irregular year for Gigondas, this 2003 is a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 15% Mourvedre. It possesses a deep ruby/purple color, superb richness, broad, expansive, full-bodied flavors, loads of glycerin and intensity, and a blockbuster finish. This beauty can be drunk now and over the next 7-8 years.Importer: Vigneron Imports, Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 530-1616