'98 Vacqueyras

[randery]

I am a real newbie and have enjoyed California and Australian products almost exclusively. A friend gave me a case of '98 Vacqueyras, Domaine le Couroulu as a Christmas gift. It consists of 60% grenach, 30% syrah and 10% mourvedre.
What is the relative quality of this vintage and cru? Should it be drunk now? Is this a common blend? Finally, I recall a California grenach that was weak and watery. Is (was) that varietal a California counterpart? Sorry for the ignorance and gthe number of questions, but I would like to know a little something about this wine before I pull the cork! I may enjoy it more! Thanks so much.

[Bucko]

Good friend! 98 was a very nice vintage and the producer is a nice house for Vacqueyras and Cotes du Rhone. Don't compare CA Grenache with Rhone -- apples and oranges. The wine should drink well for another few years.

[randery]

Thank you very much,Bucko. I look forward to it!

[Thomas]

That particular wine is wonderful. Drink up!