Domaine Virginie Gallerie Tempranillo Syrah 2000

Domaine Virginie Gallerie Tempranillo Syrah (VdP de l'Hérault) 2000: An unconventional blend of Tempranillo and Syrah, grapes more at home in Rioja and the Rhône respectively. It has just a moderately dense, attractive garnet-red hue. At first the nose offers aromas of ripe cherries, with more rounded, berry and plum fruit appearing as the wine warms up and aerates in the glass. There are also plenty of high-toast oak aromas, which come through on the palate as well. It has a rustic mouthfeel, although this is not a criticism - the firm, slightly chewy tannins and strong acidity make this wine a good foil for a wide variety of dishes. There's plenty of fruit as well, and a surprising length for such an inexpensive bottle. Very good. (1/3/02)