Chateau de Caraguilhes Corbieres Prestige 2018

The medium to full-bodied 2016 Corbières-Boutenac Prestige is a blend of 40% Grenache, 30% Carignan and 30% Syrah, one fourth of which was matured six months in French oak. It’s a bit more herbal and garrigue-laced than many Corbieres, adding additional complexity to the ripe cherry-raspberry flavors. The tannins are supple, turning silky on the finish, so it’s drinkable now and over the next 5-6 years.

The 2016 Les Gourgoules is a new cuvée for this stalwart producer of Corbières. The 30% Carignan undergoes carbonic maceration, but the traditional vinification of the 40% Syrah and 30% Grenache balance that element, yielding a wine that’s marked by ripe blueberry fruit and hints of cola and lavender. It’s full-bodied and lush, drinkable now thanks to its silky tannins.