1997 Chateau Pesquie “Vielles Vignes Cuvee 105 Non-Filtre,” Co^tes du Ventoux, Rh^one Valley.
From the southern Rho^ne valley comes this full-blooded blend of Grenache and Syrah: deep, dark, concentrated and complex, with plenty of flesh on its bones. It tastes of blackberries and of wild herbs from the foothills of Mt. Ventoux, one of Cezanne’s favorite subjects. Its depth and deep color are likely due to the fact that it comes from old vines and hasn’t been filtered.
This vintage has the body and presence of a Madiran and, like that sturdy red wine, needs a worthy opponent: a roast duck or grilled magret, a couple of hefty pork chops or a gorgeous daube de boeuf made with the same inky red wine. Finish off the bottle with an aged sheep’s milk cheese. At this price, it’s a terrific find.
About $9. Available at Wine Exchange in Orange, (714) 974-1454, and Hi-Time Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa, (949) 650-8463), each of which will ship wines for a fee. If you can’t find this wine, have your retailer contact the distributor, Regal Wine Co., at (800) 467-5889.
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