Southern France

At this brilliant level it is hard to find such a splendidly identifiable Syrah. This is good - there is nice lift and spice. The fruit is dark, with blackberry and damson notes, yet not overly cooked nor too sweet - and...(read more)

The wine merchant Lea & Sandeman sells a brilliant earthy-savoury malbec made from grapes grown in the Cahors area (but not sold as a Cahors) called Gaudou Exception.

A bold and juicy fresh style with plenty of black cherry, blackcurrant fruit and that distinct whiff of tobacco and smoked tea. Sleek and suave in the mouth, it has balance and poise.

Medium colour. Quite firm peppery fruit on the palate and a youthful palate with firm fruit. Nicely balanced.

We love this prime estate in the heart of Fronton - about half an hour north of Toulouse in the rustique South West. There is nothing rustic about this smart red though! Deep ruby in colour. Fresh bouquet with intense ar...(read more)

From the beautiful Auvergne region of France (an area more famous for scenery than vineyards) comes this super-value Pinot Noir. You can really feel the volcanic influence in this fruit filled red - damson and raspberry...(read more)

Displays an explosive red fruit profile with moderate grippy tannins, surprising acidity and an elegance.

95% Malbec & 5% Merlot. Dark and plummy with a deep draught of juicy black fruit, some nice tannic grip adds structure and then a floral violet edge unfolds with a deep chocolatiness on the finish.

50% Syrah 30% Grenache & 20% Cinsault. The temptation to overwork wine must be immense, so hats off to the team at Sollier, this is about as easy going and inviting as red wine can be. A brightness and purity of frui...(read more)

A blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Carignan. What a revelation this wine is. The wild intense nose has good meaty savour thrown in with the attractive dark berry fruit. And then the palate has great bounce! Despi...(read more)

Sumptuously rich, spicy, southern French blend of syrah, grenache and mourvèdre. Drink with anything big and beefy.