The 2005 Costieres de Nimes Les Galets Rouges, a blend of 65% Syrah and 35% Grenache, is another bargain-priced entry that is far better than its modest price suggests. It is deep ruby with some purple nuances with notes of cassis and black cherry intermixed with licorice and a hint of roasted herbs and earth. Deep, pure, silky, and a hedonistic in style, this wine should drink nicely for 3-4 years.
This is one of my favorite estates, but they make other cuvees as well, and just about anything with their name on it is a sign of quality. Their 2005 rose was gorgeous, but at this point I would prefer to wait to see how the 2006 shows as I like my roses fresh.
Importer: David Bowler Wine, tel: 212-807-1680, www.bowlerwine.com