One of the world’s greats, Château de Beaucastel reminds us that warm climate wines, too, can age. Legendary for using the 13 noble grapes of the appellation, organic farming, old vines, and deep roots have been the constant of the fifth generation Perrin family. Historically its blends were dominated by Mourvèdre, the king of savory, but recent vintages showcase even percentages with Grenache. With almost 2/3rds Mourvèdre, this 2006 Beaucastel represents the historic family recipe. It’s iconic, old-school Beaucastel, and it’s glorious.

Elegant over beefy, this 2006 is in its prime window of enjoying now. The quality of the fruit still sparkles, brambly and bright, as the Indian summer of 2006, seemed to suck out every bit of gusto from the berries. As the wine slides over the palate, the earth cracks, and the goodness of Mourvèdre perks-up the senses with smoked meat, sautéed mushroom, cigar, and sweet leather. Impressively long and packed with new-found smells and flavors, celebrate the fall season every day, when there’s Beaucastel 2006.