2002 Terre Rouge Syrah Les Cotes de L'Ouest

[Innkeeper]

We popped the '04 that came with this year's sampler. It is now a $16 wine with 14.5% alcohol. It carries the CA appellation because the grapes come from a vineyard site just outside Amador County.

It gives you wild raspberries on the nose and upfront. Another ton of fruit with herbs, pepper, and smooth tannin course one's palate, and the finish lingers.

We matched it with (you guessed it) charcoal grilled loin ends Teriyaki, brown Basmati rice, and sliced Brandywine tomatoes.

This wine is a terrific value. We may be getting a case of it.