Le Pigeoulet en Provence, Vin de Pays de Vaucluse (Rhône Valley, France) 2008

 The Brunier family, owners of the prestigious Château du Vieux Télégraphe in Châteauneuf du Pape, produces this Grenache-based wine from vineyards located in two distinct areas.  One lies just outside of the Châteauneuf appellation while the other is in the Côtes du Ventoux area.  Hence, it carries the more general and “lesser” designation of Vin de Pays.  But don’t let that deter you from trying this delightful mid-weight wine.  Syrah, Carignan and Cinsault in the blend provide plenty of spice and herbal influences that balance the Grenache’s bright red fruit notes.  The few tannins are barely noticeable, which means it’s a perfect choice for hamburgers on the grill this summer.  In case you’re wondering, Pigeoulet means “little one” in the local Provencal dialect.