2005 Esprit

Peter Schell (a New Zealander) and Magali Gely (originally from a winemaking family in Southern France, hence their original focus on Southern French varieties). A blend of mainly Grenache, Shiraz, and Cinsault, plus Carignan . Oak more noticeable than on the Papillon blend. Warm and inviting with attractive herbal notes adding another dimension to the pure red and black fruit characters. Deliciously fresh for such a rich wine. (JH)

The 2005 Esprit, a blend of 40% Grenache, 34% Shiraz, with the balance Cinsault, Mataro, and Carignan, was aged for 20 months in French oak. Purple-colored, it exhibits aromas of garrigue, damp earth, blueberry, blackberry, and black cherry. Very Chateauneuf du Pape-like, the wine is full-bodied; smooth textured, and has superb depth and balance. The wine is structured and will benefit from 6-8 years of bottle age. Drink it through 2025. Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9258

(a blend of 40% grenache, 34% shiraz, 12% cinsault, 8% mataro and 6% carignan) Ruby-red. Open-knit red and dark berry aromas are deepened by tobacco, minerals and fresh flowers. On the palate, spicy raspberry and blackberry flavors are complicated by bright mineral and baking spice notes. A fresh, firm midweight that's drinking very well now.