Stéphane Ogier Le Temps Est Venu Rouge 2019

The Ogier family has worked the Ampuis slopes of the northern Rhône for seven generations, and Stéphane Ogier took over in 1997. Le Temps Est Venu is his Côtes du Rhône, a blend of Grenache and Syrah that reaches beyond his home hillsides into the wider appellation. Grenache brings ripe red fruit, warmth and generous alcohol, while Syrah adds colour, pepper and structure. The Côtes du Rhône sites combine warm days with the freshening influence of the region, so the fruit ripens fully while keeping definition. The wine ages ten months in concrete tanks rather than oak, which preserves the pure fruit and freshness, since the inert vessel adds no wood flavour and allows a slow, even maturation. The colour is deep red. The nose shows ripe plum and red and black fruits, violet flowers and a touch of spice. The palate is full and juicy, with round tannins, a savoury note of dried herbs and liquorice, and a warm, generous finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees, in a standard red glass. It suits roast lamb and grilled meats.