A blend of Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, the perfumed nose of this youthful wine is reminiscent of a summer fruit coulis. The palate follows similar lines, displaying notes of wild strawberry, cranberry and red cherry, with the breezy acidity heightening the refreshment value.

The 2006 CLASSIC is the entry level wine, unoaked, screwcapped and basic, although not a bad deal for the price. It is 60% Cinsault and 20% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. It is clear, light and grapey, meant for prompt consumption. It is rather tasty, but has little depth or structure. Drink now-2009. Massaya is run and owned by Lebanon’s Sami and Ramzi Ghosn, with participation by the owners of Chateaus Vieux Telegraphe and Bellefont-Belcier in France. Massaya’s first vintage was 1998. Its first Gold Reserve was in 1999. The winery began by making “Arak,” the Lebanese spirit, in a light blue bottle; hence the name “Massaya,” meaning “Twilight.” The winery today makes about 250,000 bottles a year, of which about 150,000 are the entry level “Classic.”Importer: Winebow, Inc., Montvale, N.J.; tel: (201) 445-0620