This is the last in the batch of six I bought from Red Nose Wine just before the Crimbo. Château Miraval is the name and Provence is the place it’s made.

You’ll get a detailed story behind the place where and how this wine is made over at rednosewine.com. Worth a read even if you’re not considering buying it (but I really think you should).

I have to confess to a real grá for southern French wines of late, largely thanks to Gary’s selection. He has shown a keen eye to pick out some real gems from an area with a bit of a sorry reputation for mass produced bulk wine.

And this is another one of those gems. Gorgeous fruit, a rich vein of minerality and a silky smoothness. No harsh tannins, no big slap across the face, just excellent wine making. Grapes in the blend are Syrah, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Easily a 92 pointer if you care for such things.

Now, for the big reveal. I’ve never seen or heard Gary use the “c” word, and it has probably cost him sales.

Yes, “celebrité” is used to sell us almost everything these days, from Marty Whelan rolling off the “Every little helps” mantra for Tesco to Sean Moncrieff talking  up Rabodirect’s no sneaky terms and conditions.

The nice little secret, which Gary merely hints at is that Château Miraval property is owned by none other by the glamourous Hollywood duo, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Rumours abound that the name of the wine will change to “Château Brangelina” or “Clos du Pittolie” in the coming years.

I suppose Gary’s perspective is that he wants the wine to speak for itself on its own merits, no celebrity endorsement needed. Still, I’d have no problem sharing a bottle with Ms. Jolie. I wonder if Gary can pull a few strings

Buy the wine (or just read up on its history)

Check it out over at rednosewine.com