A good value, slightly better as well as more complex than the Terrasses, is the 2004 Pesquie Quintessence, a blend of 80% Syrah from 40-year-old vines and 20% Grenache from 80-year-old vines, all in the cooler northern zone in the Cotes du Ventoux appellation. This wine is aged in French oak for 12 months then bottled unfined and unfiltered. Dense ruby/purple to the rim with a big, sweet nose of graphite, black currant liqueur, licorice, as well as smoke, flowers, and barbecue spice, it is full-bodied, has superb fruit, beautiful texture, and a long, heady finish. Chateau Pesquie certainly ranks among the top two or three estates of the Cotes du Ventoux. Working closely with Eric Solomon, who produces these custom cuvees, the quality appears spectacular, at least for American consumers who have access to a more personalized style of wine from this brilliant importer. Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565