Laithwaites, Le XV du Président Réserve, Pays d'Oc, 2019

A blend of old-vine Grenache, including some vines over 100 years old, plus some Syrah, this wine is aged in oak to give it extra depth and spice. Aromas of black cherry jam, wild herbs and raspberry coulis are followed in the mouth by a kick of alcohol (it's 15%!) then flavours of wild strawberry, boozy cherries, and coffee, cream and black pepper spice from the oak. This should be drunk with something with strong flavours, such as glazed rib of beef or a rich mushroom stew.