(2021) Not shy, not retiring with its 15% abv, this comes from Cairanne, one of the top appellations of the Côtes-du-Rhône Villages. The blend is typical of the south, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan pouring an intense crimson. Arresting floral aromas of violet and wild herbs leaping from the glass. There's something more mineral, graphite-like and serious lurking beneath the charming façade here too. What a wonderful all-encompassing wine on the palate: rich, thick and brimming with sweet and ripe black fruit, but steely armour at its core gives it terrific concentration and considerable length. The tannins are profound, the acidity matching, but as the spice and black fruit intensity drives along, that's what's tasted on the finish. Will cellar 10 years.

(2019) From the fine Rhône appellation of Ventoux, this is a blend of 70% Grenache with Syrah in a forward, fulsome style that lovers of Châteauneuf-du-Pape will appreciate. But there's a beautiful violet and cracked black pepper elegance on the nose too, copious black fruits, a real lift suggesting kirsch, and blue/black intensity of fruit. On the palate the wine bursts with concentrated fruit: tangy and dark plum and plum skins, blueberry and damson, definite ripeness and power, but again there is elegance in the fine but grippy tannins that add a pleasing roughening edge to all that smooth fruit. Good acidity balances and freshens, extending the finish and promising a bit of longevity for this if you can cellar for five to eight years. Watch the video for more information and food matching ideas.

(2018) In its heavy, embossed bottle this mini-Châteauneuf-du-Pape comes from a fifth generation of winegrowers in the southern Rhône. Just a beautiful nose, where the lift of Parma violet and kirsch melts into plush red berries, a dusting of tobacco spice in the background. In the mouth it is a very elegant rendition, nothing too dominant as the lovely dried herb and cherry freshness balances the deeper, more luxurious fruit character, and the smooth tannin and acid balance. Gorgeous.

(2016) A big bold wine, loaded with fruit and extract, a deep sinewy mouthfeel and big tannins too. Bold, moreish and very impressive Grenache and Syrah blend from Vacqueyras next door to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and surely structured to age well for several years.