A deep ruby blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah, the 2017 version of Guy Mousset's Côtes du Rhône Villages Les Garrigues offers aromas and flavors of dark bramble fruits, licorice, scorched earth and clove. Medium-bodied, freshly acidic, lightly oaked, seamlessly alcoholic (14.5%) and with substantial rustic tannins, it stays solid on the mid-palate and closes with an astringent, medium-length finish. Give this another year in the cellar so that the tannins can better integrate. It may merit a higher score in the future. Drink 2021-2024.