2020 SYRAH-CARIGNAN, Monrouby. Pays D’Oc, Southern France

From the website of the UK agent, Liberty Wines: “Monrouby is a small village in the Languedoc, close to Pomérols. Graeme Paul, who makes these wines for us, was impressed with the fruit from this village in 2011, so decided to vinify several varietals separately. The vineyards are located on low lying hills, where the Bassin de Thau (a string of lakes) moderates the climate. As there is little rain in the summer, the gentle breezes from the lakes and the Mediterranean Sea reduce evaporation and in turn reduce vine stress.”

60% Syrah, 40% Carignan; cool fermentation and no oak maturation – the accent is on freshness.

Spicy, juicy, fresh – classic Languedoc red, at a very sensible price.