Château Ricardelle Closablières 2017 La Clape, Languedoc, France 75cl

Château Ricardelle sits in La Clape, the sun-drenched coastal appellation near Narbonne in the Languedoc. Once an island, this limestone massif catches cooling sea breezes and bakes under the southern sun, and its stony, sun-baked soils give the reds here their trademark blend of ripeness and wild, herbal character.

Closablières is a southern French red blend of Syrah, Carignan and Grenache, with Syrah taking the lead at around half the blend. Syrah brings dark fruit and structure, Carignan adds grip, colour and a savoury edge, and Grenache lends warmth and roundness, a classic Mediterranean recipe.

From the 2017 vintage, the wine shows the full-bodied, generous profile you would expect of a warm La Clape red, with plenty of ripeness at 14.5% alcohol. It drinks well now, with the fruit and structure to hold for a few years yet.

Expect aromas of blackberry and dark plum lifted by the garrigue scrub of thyme and rosemary that scents these hills. The palate is warm and full, with firm tannins and a savoury, peppery finish. A short decant helps it show its best.

If you like Southern Rhône or robust Languedoc reds, this La Clape blend is right in the frame and often better value. It stands up well to grilled lamb, herby stews, barbecue and mature hard cheese. Warm and full of southern character, it is a satisfying choice for a hearty winter dinner or a summer grill, and a good introduction to the coastal Languedoc for anyone exploring beyond the Rhône and looking for warmth and value in the glass.