Clos Saint Jean Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge / 2025 / 750mL

The Clos Saint Jean Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Rouge 2025 is a juicy, open-hearted southern Rhône red made for drinking rather than cellaring. Grenache-led in character, it sits at the easygoing end of the Rhône Valley spectrum, with bright fruit and plenty of warmth.

Crushed raspberry, red plum and a little dried thyme lift from the glass, with a peppery edge and a hint of garrigue scrub that marks out wines from the Vaucluse. There is a sweet-fruited lick of kirsch underneath, but nothing jammy.

The palate is medium-bodied and supple, fruit carrying the weight rather than tannin. Fine, dusty grip arrives late and keeps the finish dry and savoury, while soft acidity stops the warmth of the southern Rhône from turning heavy. Served with a light chill, it gains real freshness.

Pour it alongside lamb skewers off the barbecue, a tray of roast tomatoes and capsicum, merguez sausages, or a slow-cooked ragù over pappardelle. It also handles a charcuterie board and a wedge of hard sheep's cheese without effort.

Drink from now through to around 2029, while the fruit is at its most vivid. There is no need to lay this one down, though a year or two in the rack will soften the edges a touch.