Wine Evaluation:

Look: Deep dark red color, with ruby shade. No sediments of any kind. Few and lingering legs on the glass wall which indicate a full bodied wine.

Nose: Clean without any off odor. Intense aroma and bouquet with upfront fruit including red grape, cherry, blackberry and hints of blueberry. Faint candied violet and some spices as well as very light dark chocolate in background flavor layers.

Taste: Dry with low to slightly refreshing acidity. Full body with full flavor intensity and soft tannins. Surprisingly smooth. Straight fruit on the attack developing into bouquet of light spice. Well-balanced and lingering finish.

Personal comments:

At first sight, looking at the label and type of grapes used, one may expect a rather rough, highly vinous and spicy wine reminiscent of Syrah/Shiraz or Grenache with Vinart. Being familiar with the red wines of Côtes du Rhône and Côtes de Provence where Carignan is also grown, I was expecting a similar type of wine. Thanks to the aging, it is actually very well-balanced with just the right touch of acidity to match the soft tannins. The rather high alcohol level, at 13.5%, is more noticeable on the nose than on the tongue.

This is a great, versatile wine because of its smooth texture, straight-forward and uncomplicated flavors, and soft tannins. It will pair well with dark, savory fish (salmon, tuna), lobster or shrimp bisques, pasta in red sauces, antipasto or mezze items, grilled and roasted red meats like lamb. Try it also with savory vegetable dishes such as quiches, eggplant dishes and other specialties as well as with soft-ripened and medium-aged cheeses. But my absolute favorite is with milk or semi-sweet dark chocolate (and desserts made with such); just plain yummy!

Eric

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