Domaine Les Picarèles 2019

The Rhône Valley produces some of France’s richest, most flavorful reds, with Châteauneuf-du-Pape leading the charge. But drive just half an hour from this famed appellation and you’ll find Domaine les Picarèles. At this boutique, family-run estate, fourth-generation winemaker Jean-Paul Coste has crafted a seriously delicious, award-winning rival to Châteauneuf.

Jean-Paul’s prime-sited, 12-hectare vineyard benefits from the same galets roulés (flat ‘pudding’ stones that trap heat and boost flavors) and warm Mediterranean climate as Châteauneuf. Add in a little bonus from Mother Nature—“2019 is clearly a vintage of extremely high quality and marks the fifth straight stellar year,” reports Vinous.com—and Jean-Paul had his pick of top-notch grapes.

A classic marriage of Syrah, Grenache, and Cinsault, Jean-Paul’s 2019 release already sports two gold medals from France’s Gilbert & Gaillard and 70 Millions de Dégustateurs. You’re in for ripe black currant and blackberry aromas, supported by licorice, tobacco leaf, and earthy spice characters. Guaranteed to impress on its own or when paired with pork, smoked cheeses, or game meats (Jean-Paul’s favorite match).

This boutique, glory-vintage Rhône red offers great quality for the price. Hurry to secure your share.