The 2005 Coteaux du Languedoc Cardinal Collection 2C is a cuvee of Syrah with 30% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre whose label and style reflect the clean, modern approach of the proprietors – the Buhrer family, who also own property in South Africa – and well-known oenologist Michel Tardieu. Aromas of cherry, rhubarb and smoked meat lead to a well-concentrated, ripe, bright palate with savory underlying saltiness and a slightly warm finish whose astringency betrays the wine’s stay in new barrels.No known American importer.