WTN: 2011 Chateau La Rocque Pic St. Loup and Bonny Doon

"Vielles Vignes" Mouvedre (Varietal called out on label!)

A very nice, very earthy Provençale red. Savory red cherry, plenty of Med. herbs on the palate and nose. Smooth tannic structure, but the wine is also quite bright and lively. Kermit Lynch wins again.

Also: Bonny Doon Le Poseur Syrah (2013). Blend of Central Coast vineyard sources. Extremely floral. Wonderful herbal touch. Sleek texture-not oaky per se. Juicy with red plum fruit and cherry. I really like this wine! Served with Tri Tip, so appropriate for the food in weight and historic resonances!

Vive Pic St Loup!!

I actually shared a glass at the wine bar with some French students. Being French, they informed the manager afterwards that they "were not impressed". They also complained about the high end Chateauneuf du Pape on the system. I guess one can never please the French.