Domaine Andre Brunel Côtes Du Rhône

This intense, full-bodied red is made by the brilliant Chteauneuf du Pape producer Andre Brunel, from family owned vineyards in the village of Tavaillan. The 2011 Cotes du Rhone Villages Cuvée Sabrine, which is made from 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvedre, has just what it takes to stand up to the rigors of summer BBQ fare. It is loaded with meaty notes of blueberry, blackberry and smoke/tobacco leaf, interlaced with hints of cherry confit, a telltale component of ripe Grenache. With so much forward fruit, it can also be enjoyed lightly chilled on the deck or patio.