The estate of La Verriere is tucked away in the heart of Provence in the Ventoux AOC appellation in the Rhone. It’s a private estate comprised of a medieval priory and winery surrounded by the vineyard and private woodlands in a nature reserve. The 35 hectares of vines are 40 years old and the winery is phasing into biodynamic practices to remain chemical free and to show respect to the beautiful land.

This wine is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Carignane, Mourvedre, and Cinsault, and has a captivating nose of earth, black cherry, black raspberry, violet, and spice. The palate is silky up front with some acid showing mid-palate and lengthy tannins drawing out the finish. Flavors of black and purple fruits, blueberry, and spice are very pleasing. If a wine can be both rustic and elegant, it’s this one.

This is a great “food wine”. My suggestion is to get some pork ribs, give them a generous spice rub and cook low and slow until they fall off the bone, uncork this beauty and enjoy a cool September evening.