(2008) A blend of Syrah and Grenache harvested at 45 hectolitres per hectare and aged only in older barrels, this has a dark, almost opaque crimson colour and a nicely open nose with a little floral and herbal suggestion to creamy raspberry and redcurrant fruit. There's just a little suggestion of gaminess adding complexity. On the palate this is pure and broadly fruity, but there's a serious edge too, with firm, but ripe tannins adding a sheen of liquoricy grip to the sweet fruit. The wine is quite savoury, powerful and structured in the finish, with good balancing acidity and considerable length. Another powerful wine from Val Joanis, with a bit of staying power.