Perhaps it's the geographical proximity but this is closer in style to a Chateauneuf than most CDR Villages wines. That said, the fruit is blacker than many; this is probably down to the Jaumes' modernist approach to winemaking. In any case, it's a very good Southern Rhone wine and, compared with many, offers extremely good value. On the nose, aromas of red and black ripe fruit (kirsch and wild blackberry) are dominant. The palate is full with aromas of blackcurrant liqueur and spice. Tannins are both harmonious and elegant. The finish carries hints of liquorice and vanilla, which give the wine length and complexity.

2009 to 2015

50% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre (30hl/ha)

Vineyards in slopes and plateaux. Terroir composed by a mix of clay and sand, covered with pebbles

Traditional wine-making in stainless still vats. Crushed and destemmed grapes. Fermentation temperature: 30°C. 18 days of vatting with pigeages.

"The outstanding 2005 Lirac Clos de Sixte is one of Jaume's best selections and continues to be a star as well as a sleeper selection in 2005. A wine of considerable intensity with a deep ruby/purple colour, hints of blueberries, white flowers, some sweet cherry and chocolate, smoke and earth, this is a full-bodied, intense wine that can be drunk now or cellared for up to a decade." 90-92/100 (Parker)

Red meats