Paul Jaboulet Aine Parallele 45 Cotes du Rhone, 2022

The 45th parallel runs a few kilometers from the Jaboulet estate in France, and it also runs several kilometers from where I am drinking this wine at Amical Restaurant in Traverse City, MI. It's 56 degrees here in early June, and the grapes in Jaboulet's vineyards also benefit from a somewhat chilly growing season.

Medium deep ruby, bright and clear. The wine has been matured on its lees for six months in stainless steel and truncated cone-shaped vats. It is 53% Grenache, 37% Syrah, 5% Mourvedre, 3% Marselan and 2% Carignan, but what I am smelling and tasting tonight is predominantly Syrah. Black raspberries, spice and black pepper. Powerful attack and a firm mid-palate. Grenache begins to show up on red fruited, peppery finish. Will be drinking at its best in a year or two.