Domaine de La Janasse Côtes-du-Rhône 2023

Domaine de La Janasse is a family estate founded in 1973 at Courthézon, on the doorstep of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and this Côtes-du-Rhône draws on the same southern Rhône know how at an everyday level. The blend is built on Grenache, fleshed out with Mourvèdre, Syrah, Carignan and Cinsault, grown on the warm stony soils of the valley floor without herbicides, pesticides or insecticides. The Mediterranean climate ripens Grenache fully for red fruit and a generous core, while Syrah and Mourvèdre add pepper, structure and a savoury, meaty depth. Ageing takes place over six months in large old foudres, whose size means a low ratio of wood surface to wine, so the barrels round the tannins and let in a little oxygen without adding oak flavour. The colour is a deep, bright red. The nose leads with raspberry and red cherry, cracked pepper, plum and the dried thyme and rosemary character of the local garrigue, with a touch of liquorice. The palate is medium bodied, supple and fresh, with soft tannin and a peppery finish. Serve at 16 degrees with grilled pork, roast chicken or herb crusted lamb.