So what's the story with these sweet wines from the Languedoc-Roussillon anyway? The Languedoc-Roussillon could easily be two different wine regions, as it is somewhat spread out along the Mediterranean coast and inland, from the western edge of Provence all the way to the Spanish border near the city of Perpignan. MORE >>

The first was a Corbieres, an appellation in the western part of the Languedoc made by a producer called 2 Anes, or Two Donkeys. Mostly Carignan, with some Grenache and Syrah thrown in, the 2005 Domaine des 2 Anes Corbieres Fontanilles was smooth and supple, ripe and complex. Turned out to be a real winner. It is all tank. MORE >>

My 5's 2004 Eric Texier Cote-Rotie , $62 - This Northern Rhone Syrah was lighter than his other reds, incredibly intense nose of roasted meat and herbs, olives and soil. 100% Syrah from the resurrected Brezeme vineyard, this is light in color, but intense with plums, herbs, and tar, and really well balanced with nice acidity and low alcohol. MORE >>

It is commonly blended in many southern Rhône wines and in the Languedoc-Roussillon region directly to the west of Provence. In addition to Mourvèdre, Cinsaut and Grenache are also widely used, and Syrah and Carignan can be included in smaller amounts, up to 10% individually or up to 15% when they're both included. MORE >>

This wine is from St Chinian, an appellation in the western part of the Languedoc. The blend is Mourvedre, Carignan, and Grenache. 2005 Blandine Chauchat Coteaux de Languedoc Pic Saint-Loup Les Tonilli è res , $17. This is a blend of Carignan, Syrah, and Grenache. You know what this means? MORE >>