Cairanne is an appellation in the southern half of the Rhone Valley that produces quality reds, whites and rose’. When a sales rep stopped by my office to sample me on this wine, it didn’t take long for me to decide that this would be my January pick.
A blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 15% Carignan and 5% Cinsault. On the nose, you get notes of red plums, iron, coffee bean and just a tiny hit of funk, with a little bark action thrown in and a kiss of strawberries. Sweet tannins support notes of red plums, strawberries, bark and coffee bean with blueberry and tar notes lurking in the background. Fresh acidity pops the fruit notes on the palate with notes of licorice and tobacco joining up on the mid-palate into the vibrant delicious finish that lingers with a kiss of spice. The price on this is stupid for what you get. Great balance, complexity and integration of fruit, tannins and acidity. (B/B+)
Cheers!
Stan The Wine Man
