As the name suggests, the 2021 Grenache Carignan is a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Carignan. It is fresh, ripe and juicy with hints of graphite, turned earth, bright red fruit aromas, a mineral essence and soft floral edge. Medium-bodied and with 13.4% alcohol, the palate is rocky, with lifting tannins and succulent acidity and has plenty of life left. Enjoy with food.

Take two somewhat obscure, often-overlooked grapes, make a 50-50 blend, and voila—magic. Peppery, fruity, grapey, loaded with berries and dotted with spice, this delicious bottle has “summer” written all over it. Pour it at any barbecue and wait for the applause.——P.G.(7/1/2011)—— 88