PROVENCE | FRANCE | $32
Prune, licorice, camphor and soil on the nose. Dark berry and cherry fruit with subtle hints of anise and bay with a firm backbone of old wood and dusty earth. Bright acidity on top of robust tannins. A bit gamey and tight; requires some age or aggressive decanting. He’s cranky right off, but if you give him some time, he’ll wear you down and charm you. 55% Mourvedre, 25% Grenache, 15% Cinsault and 5% Carignan. A good wine, likely very good with maturity. (Reviewed 1/2/11)