Impressions: With an average vine age of 60 years, and now in the hands of the iconic Clos de Caillou estate, this is no ordinary Côtes du Rhône. Think of it as a baby Châteauneuf. Brooding notes of blackberries, figs, iron, lavender, cacao and forest floor greet you from the glass. The palate is rich and smooth, with a silky texture that slowly descends over a minimal velvet tannic touch. A lengthy earthy, peppery and slightly herbal finish makes it an ideal pairing for hearty winter stews and short ribs.

Additional Notes from North Berkeley Imports:

"A bold red and a beautiful tribute to the elegance and silk of very old-vine Grenache! The estate's Châteauneuf vineyard surrounds the centuries-old farmhouse like a clock; here Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault are farmed and then blended. (This region, the lieu-dit 'La Janasse,' is also home to Domaine de la Janasse's oldest vines.) Many vines were planted in the early 1920s.

A soulful and succulent Côtes du Rhône, full of sunny southern power and spice. A blend of Grenache and Syrah, sourced from vineyards in the village of Serignan du Comtat, north of Courthézon."