(2021) I've long had a fondness for the wines of Costières de Nîmes, way down in the southern Rhône close to the Camargue and Provence. This is a typical blend of Syrah and Grenache, matured in concrete vats with no oak influence, the colour is an astonishingly vibrant crimson/purple verging on black. What a gorgeous nose; a pot-pourri of flowers, spices and the herb-strewn hillsides of Provence sitting atop ripe blackberry fruit. In the mouth a blackcurrant or blueberry jam sweetness and depth, then a big kick of sandy tannin adds seriousness. Ripe cherry acidity keeps the picture alert and delicious, in a sun-filled and totally delicious style.