I’ve always liked this red Rhone blend, and this vintage is another one worthy of any Rhone connoisseur’s cellar. A blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Counoise, and Cinsault, with three percent “genesis M5,” it’s complex and yet way too drinkable. A delicious blend of perfectly ripe blackberries, it tastes of briary blackberries, boysenberries, and deep purple plums richly weaved with spice box, leather, and earth notes. A great choice for rack of lamb, buffalo, quail, or pheasant, it needs a bold dish to pair with its intense flavors. An excellent buy for the quality at only $32 retail, it’s at Central Coast Wines in SLO, or online at margerumwinecompany.com.
This article appears in Jun 4-11, 2009.