Made from 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah, the Chateauneuf du Pape Olivier Ravoire is a seriously impressive barrel sample. Loaded with notions of black raspberries, blueberries, garrigue and sappy flowers, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, beautiful purity of fruit and sweet, polished tannin. I suspect it will represent a terrific value. Southern Rhone Red Blend refers to a wide range of grape varieties often blended together to make wines in the southern reaches of the Rhone Valley in the south of France. While the blend could theoretically consist of any of a wide range of grape varieties, it is usually made up of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre, in varying proportions, typically with Grenache and Syrah as the dominant partners. Mature, complex nose dominated by balsamic, spice perfumes layered over ripe black berry fruits. The attack is full yet texture stays silky and structure taut. Harmonious, persistent and elegant. Aromas of Mediterranean forest floor give a complex herbaceous taste laced with spicy red fruit, cherry, redcurrant and cranberry taste softened by silky tannins