Provence for people who want more than rosé.
Valentino is the bold but graceful red from Château Les Valentines, near La Londe-les-Maures. Mediterranean ripeness with a bit of polish: juicy fruit, herbs and smooth tannins.
Tastes like: Ripe cherry, blackberry and black plum, with garrigue herbs, cocoa and a touch of pepper.
Feels like: Medium-bodied and dry, with a bit of grip, balanced freshness and a light touch of oak.
Great with: Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, ratatouille, chargrilled steak, mature cheeses like Comté or Manchego.
Singapore and Asian favourites: Lamb satay, black pepper beef, roast duck.
The geeky bit: Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah from schist and granite soils a few kilometres from the Mediterranean. Organic practices, low yields and hand harvesting.
Why we like it: Sun-drenched fruit, herbal finesse and silky balance. Drink better, not boring.
Serve: 16 to 18°C. Room temperature in Singapore is too warm for red wine, so give it 20 minutes in the fridge first.
Alcohol: 12%
