Biodynamic. This superb-value wine was previously known simply as the Côtes du Rhône cuvée. It is now named Les P’tit Gars (‘the little mates’), a term used to refer to the brothers Frédéric and François Alary around the town of Cairanne when they were boys. It’s crafted from mature-vine 42% Grenache Noir, 38% Mourvèdre, and 20% Syrah, with small amounts of Counoise, Cinsault, Vaccarèse, Muscardin and Terret Noir from the domaine’s new plantings (massal selection from Châteauneuf-du-Pape) included.
Here, you get greater depth, structure and savouriness for a few dollars more than the entry-level Côtes du Rhône (P’tit Martin). No small oak barrels were used during maturation, and the wine was bottled without fining or filtration. It’s a deep yet fragrant release, all silk and sinew, with a soul of sweet blueberry spice and herbs cosseted by lovely, snug tannins and vibrant freshness. An outstanding-value wine from a benchmark producer.