This little guy doesn’t have a guilty bone in his body. Neither should you. Here is this week’s $15 or less offering.
No-Guilt Wednesday is not about compromising on quality. It’s all about drinking good wine that does not break the bank, eating good food and of course, it’s about sharing with the ones you love.
Last week, I was a little late in publishing the Wednesday Wine. This week, a little early. It all balances out in the end, right? I couldn’t wait to share this little find– and we need wines like this now, especially as we head into the teeth of the holiday season. Today’s offering begs for a lightly breaded fried calamari with fresh squeezed lemon and a spicy garlic aioli. It reminds me of warmer days (that seem so far away at the moment) when a glance, a wink and the soft brushing of bare knees under the cafe table promise an afternoon of conversation and pleasure.
L’Ameillaud Vin de Pays Vaucluse 2010 ($8). This blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 20% Carignan is another winner from Vaucluse . Slightly funky wet stone notes dominate the nose to start. But these soon yield to savory herbal notes hinting at sage and thyme and spices. On the palate, these vibrant herbal elements are carried forward to complement the blackberry and blueberry notes that lead to an almost stone-like minerally finish. If you want to taste what terroir is about this is a very approachable example showing off the impact on flavor of the clay, limestone and alluvial soils found in the vineyard. Nicely balanced by the tannins and acid, this is a crazy good value at this price. Rated **1/2
sybaritesauvage 
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