Charles & Francois Tardy 2001 Crozes-Hermitage Domaine des Entrefaux, $15
This has a delightful, high-toned nose with lots of pepper, and some smoke, tar and earth. On the palate, there is bright fruit (raspberry, perhaps) with tons of pepper and some spice, smoke and earth nuances. Light- to medium-bodied, bright acidity, some tannins, well-structured but also quite smooth, terrific wine. Outstanding match with a vegetarian shepherd’s pie using French puy lentils in lieu of meat. The next two nights, it’s equally delicious. I used to be able to find this for around $10 or so, but in today’s world, it’s a great value in Northern Rhone Syrah even at $15. Importer: Kysela.
