2022 L'Orangeraie Syrah-Viognier, IGP Pays d'Oc, Languedoc-Rousillon, France

The L'Orangeraie Syrah has a deep garnet hue that characterizes it, tinged with the glow of ruby at its rim. It appears primarily opaque, subtly suggesting its dense richness. The nose starts with a delightful fusion of boysenberries and fresh earth undertones.  Rounded and supple, full of dark raspberry, ripe red berry fruit, lifted with violet floral notes.  A layer of subtle spice and cassis and hint of licorice add to the lush, ripe plum, and the irresistible black cherry, all leading to a moderately long finish. and lovely elegant textured. Easy to drink wine and a wonderful value with some potential for age for 5-8 years. It comes from a grand estate close to Carcassonne where the Château was built by the same architect as Versailles and where King Louis XIII left his travelling bed, possibly in the hope of a return visit. "L'Orangeraie" translates to "The Orange Grove" which surrounds the estate. The Lorgeril family is one of the oldest wine-making families in France. Their fam