2008 Vacqueyras, La Pavane, La Bastide St. Vincent

The wine is, as usual, aromatically satisfying with herbs and violets to the fore and a palate which combines rich, ripe fruit with hints of licorice and hedgerow. Very fine but gently persuasive tannins complete the picture. Drink 2011-2013.

Overlooked by the jagged Dentelles de Montmirail mountain in the southern Rhône, next door to its more famous neighbour, Gigondas, this classy 2008 comes from a family-owned 20ha domaine dating back to the 17th century. It’s another great big barbecue bottle, so try this gorgeous sweet, peppery syrah-scented red cushioned by lots of fat, rich, velvety gamey spice with next month’s first game birds.
(Jane McQuitty -50 best red wines for summer - The Times - 02-Jul-2011)