RHONE | FRANCE | $16
Deep, ripe cherry and dark berry fruit showing notes of licorice, coffee, cardamom and chalk. Fruit flavors dominate but with balance. Full bodied, delivering a laden, satin mouth feel and a savory finish. Decanting or time in the glass — or perhaps more bottle age — opens up an initial tightness to reveal a lovely wine. Shy at first, a little coaxing brings out a vivacious charmer. 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah. A good wine. (Reviewed 7/1/12)
