There was a time when Ventoux was one of my favorite wine appellations, offering an amazing quality/price ratio. La Vieille Ferme, Font-Sane, Marotte, Altitude 500 and this gem produced by the cooperative in Ventoux--all offering excellent wine for less than $10 and usually less than $5 a bottle. The market, however, has caught on, and grapes from this area now command higher prices. I found Cuvee des 3 Messes Basses for $12.95 at Salut in Kalamazoo, and it is still one of the best bargains in Southern Rhone reds.
Good deep color. No oak, the wine is aged in concrete vats. Oh yes! The wonderful smells: fresh red and black fruit, earth and spice. Rustic tannins--I love them. Peppery Grenache (50%), Syrah (30%) and Carignan (20%). The latter adds its own spice and pepper. Long, peppery finish. Ventoux is still one of my favorites, even if I enjoy it less frequently.
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