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Q. I received a bottle of Chateau Ste. Michelle 2005 Cinsault as a gift. Is this a red or a white wine? Could you describe it for me?

A. This is an unusual red grape rarely bottled as a varietal wine in Washington. It is originally a southern French variety, primarily used in blended wines from the Languedoc and smaller regional appellations.

Here in Washington, there are small plantings at Morrison Lane, Minnick Hills, Wallula, Stone Tree, Airfield Estates and Alder Ridge. I've tasted varietal versions from Syncline, Morrison Lane and one or two others. I suspect that your wine was originally offered to Ste. Michelle wine club members. I would expect it to be light, spicy/peppery and ready to drink. It should make a good pizza wine.

* Paul Gregutt can be reached at wine@seattletimes.com.