From WineReviewOnLine.com

Chateau Veronique, Coteaux du Languedoc (France) 2008

91/100

($16, The Organic Wine Company): The Languedoc is finally getting its act together and transforming itself from the so-called wine lake to a place to find excellent wines. The benefit for consumers is that the prices have yet to catch up to the quality of the wines. The Chateau Veronique is a great example. Herbal and spice nuances meld beautifully with black fruit flavors. Slightly tarry overtones peek out. The tannins are appropriately firm, yet not aggressive or intrusive. For all its size, it has grace and finesse. Not a fruit bomb, it has attractive slightly bitter notes in the finish that add to its allure. It would be a great choice for hearty winter fare.

Michael Apstein Jan 1, 2013

Chateau Bousquette, Saint-Chinian (France) “Prestige” 2009

93/100

($27, The Organic Wine Company): The team at Chateau Bousquette has seamlessly integrated Syrah and Grenache to produce a stellar wine that delivers both power and elegance. Red fruit and herbal notes are harmoniously intertwined with earthy mineral-like elements in this complex, layered beauty. There’s an appealing firmness and freshness. It’s lovely now with polished fine tannins, but its balanced suggests it will develop beautifully with proper cellaring. But I’m not sure many will be able to wait. This is not a wine to sip as an aperitif, but rather to drink and savor with hearty roasted lamb shanks.

Michael Apstein Jan 1, 2013