2018 Department 66 Others, Languedoc-Roussillon, France

The wine pours a deep ruby red with just a hint of brick at the edge. On the nose, you get easygoing waves of marionberries, blue fruit, a bit of fruit compote, some earthy garrigue, and a touch of dried lavender. The first sip is full of rich dark fruit, which naturally shifts into brighter flavors—think plum tart, warm spices, and a little mountain‑herb lift. A lively streak of acidity keeps everything balanced and leads into a long, smooth finish.