Regional France

Stunning value, easy drinking party wine from our friends at Claude Val.

The 'Black Wine of Cahors' is made with Malbec, and here produces a dark fruit dominated wine, brooding with rosemary herbs and lifted by a fresh finish.

Fabulously perfumed Syrah which has deep black fruit and cassis, balanced oak on the palate and a dry, spicy finish. Blind tasted, you'd confuse this for a top class Crozes-Hermitage.

The infamous wines of Madiran, made with the Tannat grape, can be tough, tannic and un-approachable. This, however, is firm but fair, with a dark fruit nose, and a well-concentrated cassis and bramble fruit palate, enhanced with leather, spice and black pepper.

Often overlooked, Bandol produces some fine wines, often with great longevity. This is made with 85% Mourvedre and some Grenache - two of my favourite grapes, so we're on the right track. Wild dark fruits and firm tannins - great with grilled red meats.
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This was a stand out wine when I tasted it among several others in September. Classic Cab Franc green edges with lots of dark fruit body and classy tannins.

A mini Cote Rotie! This wonderful blend is from the Languedoc and is great value for money. It's rich, dense and delicious.