Cuvee 3 Messes Basses Ventoux, 2018

Produced by a cooperative, Vignerons de Mont Ventoux, this has become one of my favorite Southern Rhone wines, reminding me of the Cotes du Rhone and Cotes du Ventoux wines of the 1980s and 1990s. Unlike many wines from this part of France, Cuvee 3 Messes Basses is still made in the traditional manner.

Bright crimson, medium deep. Very aromatic: fresh fruit with hints of cinnamon and cloves. Strawberries, ripe cherries, spice and black pepper. The fruit is ripe and up front, and the acidity keeps it fresh and inviting. Long and enjoyable finish. Perfect on its own or with almost any food. I can never have enough of this wine in my cellar.