Price: $18

Producer: Chateau Pesquie

Origin: Côtes du Ventoux, France (Southern France)

Type of wine: Dry red wine – 40% Syrah, 60% Grenache

Try it with: Grilled steak, pork chops, hearty risotto

Date Reviewed: March 2004

Many critics go ‘ga-ga’ for this wine. It is made in a decidedly new world style. La Quintessence is deep indigo with a slightly red rim. The nose is quite seductive – violets, black plum preserves and toasted vanilla. In the mouth my initial impression was of overly harsh astringency. Stiff leathery tannins edged out much of the flavor. However after 30 minutes of breathing in the glass, this wine came to life. La Quintessence offers full fruity flavors of red plums and berries. Drink this wine with hearty dishes and it will shine.