The usual Mediterranean suspects, Syrah (45%), Mourvèdre (30%), Carignan (15%), and Grenache, come together here to form a winning combination. There’s a wild strawberry-like fruitiness coupled with engaging earthy notes for added complexity. Nicely polished tannins make this mid-weight red easy to enjoy now. It’s got more class than you’d expect for the price, so stock up–it’s a good choice for hearty fall fare.
Château de Jau, Côtes du Roussillon Villages (Languedoc, France) 2008
By Michael Apstein