An inexpensive, seductive, sleeper of the vintage is the 2009 Mas de Guiot Vin de Pays Grenache/Syrah (40% of the former and 60% of the latter all aged in tank). This endearing red boasts a dense ruby/purple color in addition to loads of creme de cassis and blackberry fruit intermixed with hints of kirsch, lavender and spice. It is a fleshy, medium-bodied, silky smooth 2009 to enjoy over the next 2-3 years.

A top-notch Costieres de Nimes estate, Francois and Sylvia Cornut (also renowned for their apricot and cherry orchards) farm these vineyards from which they turn out a series of beautifully made, well-priced wines sold under both the Mas de Guiot and Chateau Guiot labels. They were very successful in 2009. ROBERT PARKER, The Wine Advocate

The 2009 vintage has delivered ripeness and the screw cap has locked it in nice fresh - it's lovely to see just how good these everyday Euro reds can be when spared the injustice of cheap cork. The nose is all brambly berries and spice, with plenty of raspberry, plum and violet like perfume. The palate has easygoing juicy , dark berry flavours with velvet-like fine tannins a twist of earth and dark chocolate on the finish. NICK STOCK