1998 Ch. de Bonice, Costieres de Nimes

[hotwine]

An unspecified blend of Syrah and Mourvedre with 13.5% alc. Smoked sausage and juniper berries on the nose, so enjoying with smoked venison sausage, a lump of Regiano Parmesiano and water crackers. Just popped, so still developing in the glass, but showing promise. Discounter's price was $9.99.

[hotwine]

Now in the glass for three hours. The smoke has subsided, replaced with cedar, a bit of wet creek pebble underneath. Still evolving. More complexity than I expected for 10 bucks.

[Drew]

I think some of the best French wine values come from Nimes and Cahors....problem is that for some reason, in my wine rich area, don't see many of these bottlings.

Drew

[hotwine]

I think so, too. Just stumbled on this one the other day, tucked out of the way of normal traffic in the shop. Will grab some more before they're "discovered".

Not only is distribution really spotty on these wines, but I also suspect their margins are very thin, so there's little incentive for retailers to ask their wholesalers to supply them. Gotta grab 'em quick when they do show up.