Domaine de l’Edre operates along the lines of the ‘garagiste’ producers in Bordeaux in that they have a few hectares of old vines with exceptional terroir, and a small cellar in town where they produce tiny quantities of sensationally good wine.

The crucial difference though is that this is Roussillon, not Bordeaux, so the value for money is fantastic.

The Edre 2016 is an unoaked blend of 60% Syrah, 25% Grenache and 15% Carignan. It is inky purple in colour and full bodied with pure raspberry and cassis fruit. 12 months in French oak has added cedary notes and complexity but the use of once used barriques means that the wood influence is in balance with the fruit. The wine is deliciously ripe but is still graceful and light on its feet. All in all, this is seriously impressive stuff, and in terms of fine wines, a great bargain when compared to wines from almost any other part of France at the same price point.

Offered: October 2018.

Alcohol: 15%.

Drinking window: 2018 – 2028.

Food matching: Drink with grilled red meat and game, lamb chops and hard cheeses.