2001 Domaine le Sang des Cailloux Vacqueyras Cuvee Floureto

Sang des Cailloux literally means “blood of the stones,” and there is something stony and wonderfully seductive about this gorgeous Vacqueyras from the Southern Rhone. The 2001 vintage was terrific there, and this may be the best Vacqueyras this well-regarded estate has yet made. The fruit is very ripe and carries the scents of wild herbs from the scrubby garrigue that surrounds the vineyards. Full and opulent, the 2001 Cuvee Floureto is shot through with generous tannins that should soften with a bit of age.

Don’t let that put you off -- this is one great Rhone at a tremendous bargain for the quality. Drink it with roasted or grilled lamb, a daube with black olives, or any roasted or braised meats. Bring on the bold flavors. Score one for the Southern Rhone with this fascinating blend of Grenache with Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault.

S. Irene Virbila

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Quick swirl

Region: Southern Rhone

Price: About $25

Style: Full-bodied and seductive

Food it goes with: Bold flavors, Provencal and Mediterranean dishes, daubes and other braised meats, grilled or roasted meats

Where you find it: Wine Exchange in Orange, (714) 974-1454;

Woodland Hills Wine Co. in Woodland Hills, (818) 222-1111;

Wade’s Wines in Westlake Village, (818) 597-9463.