This Rhone blend is made in the style of Chateauneuf-du-Pape with five varieties in the following percentages: 47 Syrah, 27 Grenache, 14 Mourvedre, six Counoise, three Cinsault, and three other blends. Winemaker Doug Margerum sources the grapes from 11 vineyards to create this unique wine. Big and bold, it opens with briary, wild blackberry and plum aromas and flavors nicely rounded out by notes of leather, spice, and earth. Its layers of flavors are irresistible on its own, and a perfect choice for equally bold meals. Pair it with a bison burger, herb-roasted leg of lamb, or a good marbleized ribeye steak. The best price I’ve found was $19.99 at Tastes of the Valleys Pismo Beach.
This article appears in Nov 24 – Dec 1, 2011.