The scholarly looking August Clape, one of the passionate guardians of the tradition of high class, ageworthy Cornas, has a problem. Everyone wants his wine. He now wonders whether the obscurity he endured during the seventies is preferable to his current international popularity. Shrewd consumers looking for a terrific bargain should consider Clape's 100% Syrah-based wine called Le Vin des Amis. Made from Syrah vines planted at the foot of the Cornas hills, this purple-colored wine exhibits a big, peppery, cassis-scented nose, excellent round, vividly pure flavors, medium to full body, soft tannins, low acidity, and a lush finish. Only 200 cases were made of this delicious, supple-textured Syrah designed for drinking over the next 5-6 years. Importers: Kermit Lynch Imports, Berkeley, CA and a Christopher Cannan Selection, Europvin - various importers.