An interesting wine, with unusual layers of flavors for the price and varietal. The nose shows raspberry, violets, and cigar ash. The palate shows wild cherry, raspberry, cigar ash, and violet. The mid-palate adds balsa and toward the finish, a quick pinch of salt. Tannic and rustic, this should be paired with rustic food. Drink with cassoulet. Recommended. 86 points.
WHO: Paul Mas Estate
WHAT: Carignan
WHERE: France, Languedoc Roussillon, Languedoc, Vin de Pays de l’Hérault
VINEYARD: Savignac Vineyard
WHEN: 2011
HOW MUCH: $12