2006 Clape Le Vin des Amis

Auguste Clape makes marvelous, inky Cornas in the tiny northern Rhone appellation; they can be hard to find, and usually need some time in the cellar. But he also produces a much more approachable 100% Syrah called Le Vin des Amis -- the wine of friends -- from vineyards just outside the Cornas appellation. Classified as a vin de table, the 2006 Le Vin des Amis is a wonderful, supple Syrah with ripe tannins and a taste of black cherries. Easy drinking and food friendly, it has the stuff to go with a simple roast or an intricately spiced tagine. It's pretty great with an earthy bean soup too.

-- S. Irene Virbila

Quick swirl

Region: Rhone

Price: About $20

Style: Rich and full-bodied

Food it goes with: Duck confit, veal shank, roast chicken

Where you find it: 15 Degrees C in Templeton, (805) 434-1554, www.15degreescwines.com; Mission Wines in South Pasadena (626) 403-9463, www.missionwines.com; and Wine Exchange in Orange (714) 974-1454 and (800) 769-4639, www.winex.com.