On we roll with a summer, of sorts, here in Ireland.  Here’s an outstanding bottle of wine from Sweeney’s in Glasnevin, that I tried recently which calls, nay demands, a barbecue.

Château Michel Cazevieille Origine 1922 AC Saint Chinian 2012

As is the norm for the Languedoc this is a blend, but only has two components – Syrah and Grenache – which are both considered well suited to the area.  (Carignan is also still grown in the area and can be very average if overcropped).

Michel Cazevieille created Origine 1922 as a homage to his grandfather Paul who set up in Cazedarnes at the beginning of the 20th century.  Since then the family has gradually expanded their holdings so that today they have 22 hectares of vines across plateaus and clay / limestone hills.

Lots of deep black fruit framed with a touch of tannin and spice, and a smokey character that would pair so well with barbecue marinades.  The alcohol is quite high at 14.5%, though not uncommon for such a southerly location, but it comes across as richness rather than heat.  It’s a well balanced wine.

If you’re not familiar with Saint Chinian (there are so many Saint- wines in France that confusion sometimes reigns), it’s in the central part of the Languedoc, an arc stretching from just above the Spanish border on the eastern side of the Pyrenees, around the Mediterranean past Montpellier:

And the best bit about this wine?  It’s only €12.99, what a bargain!

This Summer’s BBQ Wines:

#1 – Bellow’s Rock Coastal Region Shiraz 2013

#2 – Château Michel Cazevieille Origine 1922 AC Saint Chinian 2012

#3 – and #4! Domaine de Maubet IGP Côtes de Gascogne 2014 & Venturer Côtes de Gascogne 2014

#5 – Byron Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir 2012

#6 – Lot #01 Mendoza Malbec Cabernet 2013