Located in the village of Badens to the east of Carcassonne in the Minervois region of the Languedoc, Raymond Julien is a grower to watch. He specialises in the Carignan grape from old vines although this 'Rouge de Lazerolle' is a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. Floral and ripe, this pairs well with roast vegetable and meat dishes.

Deep ruby-red in the glass. Perfumes of cassis, blueberries and spice on the nose. Complex, peppery flavours of black and red fruits, vanilla and a touch of wild herbs. Excellent tannins and balanced acidity with a long finish. Serve with roast beef, duck liver pate or artichoke hearts in a mornay sauce.