Mas de Libian is situated in the village of Saint-Marcel d'Ardeche in the southern Rhone Valley. The farm has been in the Thibon family since 1670 and today the winemaking is presided over by Helene Thibon who took over in 1995. The estate has always been organic although biodynamic status was granted in 2005. The average age of the vines is 30 years and they are situated on south facing terraced plots with superb views towards Mont Ventoux. 'Vin de Petanque' is a blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah and Helene recommends that it should be chilled and enjoyed during the course of an early evening game of boules.

Cherry-red in colour. On the nose, scents of blueberries and blackcurrants. Very fresh on the palate with bright red fruit flavours and a crisp acidity. There is the barest evidence of tannins and the finish is refreshing. Don't be fooled though - even when chilled this is a complex wine. Try with a celery and beetroot salad, roast loin of pork with garlic or sardines stuffed with spinach.