The general style is one of fruity, good quality, commercially-styled wines that represent very good value, and are immediately appealing. All of the 2007s are fruit-laden, lush, and best drunk in their first 3-5 years of life. These wines are aged in tank prior to early bottling I’ll keep my tasting notes brief as these are all well-made Vacqueyras that represent different blends, usually dominated by Grenache with various percentages of Syrah and Mourvedre added. Vinification tends to be traditional, with carbonic maceration employed for some cuvees. Importers: Fruit of the Vine, New York, NY, and Vintner Select, Cincinnati, OH; tel. (800) 597-1491

My favorite is the 2006 Vacqueyras Vallon des Sources, a blend of 70% Grenache and the rest Syrah and Mourvedre. Richly fruity with notes of cherry, garrigue, pepper, and licorice, the wine has superb intensity, beautiful ripeness, medium to full-body, and silky tannins. It should drink nicely for 5-8 years. Importers: Fruit of the Vine, New York, NY, and Vintner Select, Cincinnati, OH; tel. (800) 597-1491