Domaine de la Biscarelle Cotes-Du-Rhone Villages 2016

Essentially a baby Chateauneuf, Domaine de la Biscarelle’s Cotes-du-Rhone Villages features a core of Grenache (55%), accented by Syrah and Carignan, with a dollop of Cinsault thrown in for extra complexity.

A deep, opaque black plum color in the glass, the wine opens with Chateauneuf-like aromas of clove-scented cherry fruit accented by hints of cinnamon, freshly cracked black pepper, licorice, herbs, and Seville orange zest. Deep, intense, and satisfying on the palate, plentiful tannins sneak in and serve to frame the wine’s chewy kernel of black currant and black cherry fruit.

A persistent stony soil undercurrent segues the wine to its long, lingering finish suggesting nutmeg, cloves, star anise, baker’s chocolate, bitter cherry skin, and garrigue. This is a deep, resinous, and complete Cotes-du-Rhone Villages – and one that delivers way beyond its price tag. Serve with roast leg of lamb, dishes featuring porcini mushrooms, anchovy-rich tapenades, and braised hare.