For those who like to unbalance themselves and discover the grape variety in a glass they have been offered, the wines of the Rhone Valley are a real misfortune. Because traditionally these wines, whether red or white, are mostly made by blending several grapes. Sometimes even 5 or 6 different varieties. In this case, fortunately, the blend is simpler but not entirely traditional. Victor Bérnard, in fact, offers this interesting Chateauneuf du Pape, an iconic appellation of the region, made from a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault. Of the three varieties, the latter is the least common and therefore the one that might mislead a less experienced taster. Vinified in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks using selected yeasts, after racking the wine is left to mature in wooden barrels for about a year. This is necessary for all the components of the wine to harmonise and create a pleasant whole. Ruby red with garnet highlights, this "vin rouge" is a wonderful product for long ageing. The Syrah gives it a pleasant spiciness that integrates well with the rich fruit and the delicate mineral note that emerges after a few seconds. On the table, this is the wine you open when roasts or stewed meats arrive. But once in the glass, this is the wine you sip slowly while chatting late into the night.