Domaine Du Séminaire Valréas Grenache Syrah 2007, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône-Villages, France: Aromas of black cherry liqueur, cedar, dark spices and smoke. Lovely fleshy black raspberry notes. Full-bodied and supple. 173237 13.50% XD 750 mL  $14.95 Score: 89/100. June 12, 2010 Best Value Red Wine. Full Review

Les Grandes Serres Syrah Blend 2009, A.C., Côtes Du Rhône Villages, Rasteau, France: Vintages Wine Panel: This wine won a Gold Medal at the Concours des Vins in Orange, in 2010. Recently, Rasteau received a long-awaited approval to begin selling dry red wines under its own appellation name, separate from Côtes du Rhône-Villages. This red has a plum-and-spice nose, and flavours of black plum, blackberry, mince tart, honey and white pepper that all recur nicely on the palate to a warm, spicy finish. A well-made wine, with a medium body and good length. An excellent choice for grilled red snapper or ratatouille. My note: A savoury and delicious wine with aromas of black cherries and black raspberries, cedar and smoke. This wine would be amazing with a peppercorn steak or meat lovers’ pizza. Drink: 2011-2016. 194944 14.50% XD 750 mL  $16.95 Score: 90/100. February 5, 2011 Best Value Red Wine (Tied). Full Review

Perrin & Fils Les Sinards 2009, A.C., Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Rhône, France: Pure black cherry liqueur in concentration and flavour. Rich, robust and layered. Full-bodied doesn’t begin to describe it for those who love a full-palate wallop. This one will age well in the cellar. This half-size bottle will mature faster than the 750 mL bottle that he’s referring to – 6-8 years is probably more accurate. It’s part of the Vintages Essentials Collection. 5975 14% XD 375 mL  $19.95 Score: 93/100. January 7, 2012 Top Rated Red Wine. Full Review