Grenache, Syrah, Mouvedre (about equal), Viognier and Cinsault. Popped and poured
Color: Dark ruby-black with some bricking.
Nose: Black plum with a distinct whiff of funkyness. I liked this nose! The funkness did blow off a bit later, but it still kept popping out.
Palate: Surprisingly primary-not nearly as "funky" or garrigue-y as the 2002 I drank with friends last year. A lot of piercing fruit with good acidity: strawberry (from the Grenache) black cherry, a lot of licorice. Warm, but not hot like a lot of California Rhones (this had a nominal 13.5% abv).
As the evening went on, the wine smoothed out nicely and began to show more intriguing notes. Still pretty primary, though. 15.5/20
I think the 2002 remains my favorite LCV, but I've enjoyed all of them. I think I will try the 100% Mouvedre Old Telegram next-only $19.