Trader Joe's Reserve Rasteau Lot #254, 2022

Rasteau is very good Cotes du Rhone Villages appellation, and Trader Joe's price ($9.99) is less than half what you might pay elsewhere for a Rasteau of this quality.

Bright, medium deep ruby. Looks and smells like a traditionally made Rasteau. Cherry, black raspberries and a black licorice streak that is typical of wines from this CDR Villages. Medium body. A bit bold and tannic in its youth, but I'm sure the red and black berry charm will blossom in a year or two. I bought a stash and will be drinking some now and some later. For my taste, this is one of the best values on the TJ shelves.