Chateau Pesquie Terrasses Ventoux, 2011

I like Ventoux wines, in part because they offer dramatic fruit smells and flavors for less than $10 a bottle. I don't buy much Pesquie because it typically sells for more than $10 and differs from other Ventoux wines (like Altitude 500 and La Vieille Ferme) in style more than in quality. Nevertheless, I have never been disappointed by Pesquie Terrasses.

Dark, bluish purple. Really fragrant--black and red berries, pepper, blue plums and garrigue. Same on the palate with a good peppercorn flavor on the mid-palate. Fills the mouth, and the 14.5% alcohol provides body and texture more than heat. Very pleasantly dry on the finish. I really love the impression this wine leaves on the finish.