FRANCE

A note from the winemaker: Deep violet. Powerful, smoke-accented dark berries, licorice and pungent flowers on the mineral-inflected nose. Chewy black and blue fruit and candied violet flavors take on a spicy aspect as the wine opens up. In a generous yet still lively style, with solid finishing thrust and dusty tannins framing a long, dark-fruit-dominated finish.

Food Pairings: Beef, Pork chops, cassoulet, Coq au vin, or beef roast.