Terrassous Villare Juliani 750Ml

This is gorgeous wine, and all the more impressive considering that it comes from a cooperative. Its 70 member-growers in Terrats farm 2,000 acres spread over the stony, schisty hills of Les Aspres; this red focuses on syrah (carbonically macerated) and grenache (long, traditional maceration). Vinified in cement, the wine smells of pure cassis, and tastes of plums just plucked from the tree. It’s fresh and vibrant, with violet scents that add lift and grace, even while the meaty tannins give the wine an earthy, lasting insistence. If you have the patience to cellar it, it’s sure to last well, but no one will complain if you crack it open tonight. –W.D.L.

Deep Purple color with cassis hues, refined bonquet of kirsch and dark berry fruits. Silky and fleshy palate with garrigue notes.  Wine & Spirits