Bastide Castel d'Aille lies within the Plaine des Maures National Nature Reserve in Provence, a landscape of umbrella pines, oaks and chestnut woods that shelters some 180 protected species. Provence is best known for rosé, but this red, from Mourvèdre and Syrah, makes a good case for the region's other colour.
Deep red with garnet glints, it opens with wood, vanilla and spice, then blackberry and liquorice once it has had some air. The palate is bold and dark-fruited, with toasted notes and a smooth texture. It will keep for five to eight years, and an hour in a decanter does it no harm.
At a glance: Mourvèdre, Syrah · Provence · organic · vegan · 5–8 years
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