2023 Domaine Arsac Les Aoutres

A lovely example of how delicate and floral Syrah can be in the right hands, Domaine Arsac's Les Aoutres begins with teasing notes of violets, dry earth, and a whiff of Syrah's trademark meatiness on the nose, moving to a powerful palate with abundant black and blueberry, along with just a touch of pomegranate, and a tense, mineral finish.

A superb barbecue wine, the "Les Aoutres" will be match a lovely match for a plate of grilled ribs or a classic picnic shoulder, or something a bit plainer where the peppery Syrah adds seasoning, like a Cassoulet, or a white bean soup.