On the surface is an abundance of violets and velvet, amid a cooling sensation of a cold spring on a hot day. Below the surface lurks a bitter austerity.

An abundance of violets and velvet, amid a cooling sensation of a cold spring on a hot day.

Intense in both color and character, the most dense and vinous I can ever remember from this cuvée.

We aimed for maximum drinkability: plenty of hedonistic purple-tinged fruit, along with a hint of wild herbs and lovely lavender and violet notes.

Clairette, an unsung hero of the south, is the main grape here, undoubtedly one of many key elements to this singular wine.

A fresh, pure entry point to the Rhône’s great reds with aromas and flavors of black cherries, stones, and a hint of black olive.

February Club Rouge ~ Serve this one cool, from a carafe, with a plain old burger—generously seasoned with herbes de Provence.

Violets and dark berries dominate the palate, with a pleasant wild side lurking below the surface.

This bears a rich bouquet of wild strawberry, flowers, garrigue, and sweet spices, culminating in a long, stony finale.

The palate is dense and ripe, yet wonderfully smooth and elegant. Racines seems to tap into the history of Les Pallières, the prestige and the high-toned elegance.