Margaret Swaine’s Wine Picks: Red Regional Classics

Crasto Vinho Tinto 2010
$14.95 (88 Points)
This dry red from Portugal’s dramatic Douro region is made from the same grapes used in port production, namely roriz, tinta barroca, touriga franca and touriga nacional. A deep purple opaque colour, it’s intense and fruity with rich yet dry port-like flavours. Well structured, oak comes through in the finish. Perfect with a juicy lamb burger.

Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages 2009
$15.95 (89 Points)
Made from the lively gamay grape, Beaujolais is a chillable red that suits summer to a tee. Purple-edged garnet, medium-full in body, this has easy, smooth tannins and spiced cranberry, red berry flavour. It can handle the spice of a Jamaican jerk, Portuguese piri piri-grilled chicken or peppercorn-crusted tuna.

Perrin Les Sinards Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2009
$34.95 (92 Points)
From one of southern Rhône’s finest producers, this beguiling red is made from 70% grenache with the rest syrah and mourvèdre. Medium-full bodied, complex, ripe and fleshy with layers of seductive flavours, its style is come hither and enjoy. It has notes of fig, cherry, red berry with a touch of garrigue and silky tannins. Have with grilled duck breast, venison or other game meats.