2003 Domaine de la Begude Bandol

The Tari family, who used to own the Margaux estate Chateau Giscours, bought this Bandol property a decade ago and are producing Bandols that are elegant and wonderfully drinkable expressions of Mourvedre.

Their 2003 Domaine de la Begude rouge, a blend of 85% Mourvedre and 15% Grenache, is a seriously good wine. Deep in color, it has an earthy, spicy character softened by the sweet, ripe flavors of black currants and cherries. Just the thing to accompany the Easter leg or rack of lamb. Daubes are the classic match -- think beef with olives -- but also Moroccan tagines.

Quick swirl

Region: Provence

Price: About $25

Style: Full-bodied and elegant

Food it goes with: Leg or rack of lamb, beef daube with olives, Moroccan tagines.

Where you find it: Flask Fine Wines in Studio City, (818) 761-5373; Mission Wines in South Pasadena, (626) 403-9463; Red Carpet Wine Merchants in Glendale, (818) 247-5544.

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--S. Irene Virbila