Mas du Soleilla Coteaux du Languedoc La Clape Les Bartelles 2006:

This is a dark, full bodied expression of the southern region of France, blended with 80% Syrah and 20% Grenache.  The combination yields a wine that is simply luscious with aromas and flavors of kirsch, dark cherry, chocolate and spice and finishes smoothly.  The vineyard lies along the Mediterranean Sea on the hills of the La Clape Peninsula.  The soil tends to be of calcareous gravel, limestone, and marl.  The wine’s alcohol, at 14.5%, plays perfectly against the fruit and spice.  While I have not located the wine locally, this is one that’ worth every penny if you are resourceful.  It’s priced around $45.  One added note here, the ’07 looks to be just as superb and at a price no more than the ’06.  Either vintage could be enjoyed now or over the next few years.

Montirius Vacqueyras Le Clos 2006: