Owen Roe Sinister Hand 2018

Grenache makes up 55% of this wine, with the rest Syrah (19%), Mourvèdre (17%) and Cinsault. The aromas rise out of the glass, with notes of raspberry, flower, white pepper and orange slice. Light, elegant red fruit flavors follow, almost tasting like a Pinot Noir. It shows an appealing sense of balance.

Lively and floral, with fresh raspberry, garrigue and violet accents that build structure toward medium-grained tannins. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2028. 2,300 cases made.

A blend of 55% Grenache, 19% Syrah, 17% Mourvedre, and 9% Cinsault, the 2018 Sinister Hand from Owen Roe sports a deep ruby/purple color as well as great notes of peppery herbs, new leather, blackberries, and raspberries. Medium-bodied, nicely textured, with the purity and freshness of the vintage, it has light tannins and is already hard to resist. Nevertheless, I suspect it will evolve for 4-6 years with no issues.

Medium red. The nose combines peppery medicinal herbs and slightly liqueur-like red cherry and raspberry aromas, with the Grenache element dominating today. An easygoing wine with red fruit, spice and herb flavors offering immediate appeal. Finishes with a firm dusting of essentially smooth tannins and good subtle length. Lacks only the complexity and urgency for 90 points. A bit fatter than the 2017 version last year but not quite as juicy or delineated.