Domaine de la Cote de l'Ange, 2005

The 2001 Domaine de la Cote de l'Ange is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape, an appellation located in the southern Rhône Valley. Like all wines of this sort, it is a blend of many varieties, in this case Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, and Syrah. In all, thirteen grape varieties are permitted for use in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This particular specimen had intense red fruits with smoky notes and mineral on the nose. The palate featured earthy black fruit balanced with nice tannins and a long finish hinting at coffee. An awesome wine, overall. $24. Drink it with lamb, prepared however you like; I'd prefer a roast.

Finca Luzon, 2006

Finca Luzon! From the Jumilla region in Spain, this everyday drinking red is a blend of Monastrell (Mourvèdre) and Syrah. A delicious dark purple in the glass. It's big, ripe, and round, just loaded with cassis, licorice and truffles, and pretty intense for its price point, with smooth tannins paired to decent acidity. Also organic! $8 a bottle, so buy a case. This would be an excellent match for grilled beef tenderloin, or some braised lamb shoulder.