Old vines (Vieilles Vignes on French labels), the term used for grape vines 40 years or older, produce smaller quantities and, some say, higher quality fruit than younger vines. Wine produced from old vines grapes is considered to be very good. Joshua Wesson of Best Cellars agrees and says these are wines worth looking for. His reasonably priced picks include:

California: Renwood Old Vines Zinfandel 1998 - about $15.00

Spain: Vina Alarba Old Vines Grenache 1999 - about $10.00

South Africa: Beyerskloof Old Vines Pinotage 1999 - about $12.00