A little history: Commanderie de Peyrassol was founded by the Knights of Templar, who were dedicated to protecting the Crusaders en route to, and in, the Holy Land. Among the artifacts that the Templars are said to have unearthed during their time on Temple Mount were the fabled Holy Grail, the Turin Shroud, the head of St. John the Baptist, the Spear of Destiny, the embalmed head of Jesus Christ, and the location of the last resting place of the Ark of the Covenant, believed to be buried somewhere in modern-day Ethiopia. The first recorded harvest took place in 1256, and winemaking has continued uninterrupted throughout the centuries.
Commanderie de Peyrassol Rouge 2015 is a blend of 50% Syrah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Grenache, fermented in cement tanks. The “Commanderie,” now known as Chateau Peyrassol, is located in the hills of the “arrière pays,” or backcountry, of the Var, north of St. Tropez and Hyères, between the villages of Le Luc and Flassans-sur-Issole.
Upon tasting, it still retains its freshness with a deep ruby color and mature fruit notes, including raisin. It has good acidity and tannins with a hint of licorice. The finish is clean with a lingering Syrah-dominant flavor profile that includes red fruit, oak, and pepper spices. This wine needs some time to open up and soften the tannins.
$24.