WINES OF THE WEEK

UNDER $18: EVERYDAY DRINKING

Vin de Pays de Principauté d’Orange 2015, Jean-Paul Daumen, France red, $17.95, SAQ # 12244547: A mix of Bordeaux and Rhône grapes, with cabernet and grenache leading the way. Really interesting and unique wine. Lots of complexity on the fruit side, running the spectrum between blackberry and cherry, but there’s a lot more going on here with spice, clove and licorice on the finish. Tannins have some good pop. Residual sugar: 2.3 g/L. Serve at 16C. Drink now-2019. Food pairing idea: Leg of lamb.

$18-$23: MID-PRICED MARVEL

Côtes du Roussillon 2015, Marie-Gabrielle, Domaine Cazes, France red, $19.90, SAQ # 851600: Organic. One of the better under $20 for those who want some good fruit and power. Loaded with ripe fruit, but with grippy tannin and a fine acidity. The wine stays very linear, very fine. High drinkability factor. Residual sugar: n/a. Serve at 16C. Drink now-2018. Food pairing idea: Cassoulet, flavourful sausages.

$23 AND UP: FOR A TREAT

Syrah 2012, Central Coast, Monterey, Qupé, California red, $35.50, SAQ # 866335: One of my favourite syrahs from anywhere. Reminds me a lot of a granite grown Crozes-Hermitages with its bright red fruit that is verging on becoming blackberry, with a hint of smoked meat on the finish. Ripe and juicy, with fine and elegant tannin. Streamlined, built on fruit and not oak, a true pleasure to drink. Residual sugar: 2.3g/L. Serve at 16C. Drink now-2018. Food pairing idea: Braised meats with clove and Moroccan spice.