The 2016 Cotes du Rhone Variations is a Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre-Carignan blend sourced from two plots outside Lirac, both more than 50 years old. Peppery notes spice up the nose, while the palate delivers charming notes of red plums and apricot. Medium-bodied, it's supple in feel and dangerously gulpable. This terrific value should continue to drink well for a few more years.