INSIDER'S PICK: 2015 MICHEL GASSIER COTES DU RHONE VIEILLES VIGNES 'CERCIUS' (Wine Advocate 90points) $15.99

When the weather gets as cold as it is supposed to over the next few days, most people aren't looking for a wine that is too intellectual or contemplative. Rich, flavorful, and immediately satisfying is the name of the game if you are going to brave the single digits to join us in our constantly 'balmy' 55-60 degree store. This is just such a wine, one of the many remarkable producers from importer Eric Solomon's portfolio of French and Spanish wineries that just can't help but make tasty wines. The combination here of older Grenache and Syrah parcels along with raising the wine in cement tanks provides a luscious, texture and immediately pleasing wine without loosing the underlying subtle character that gives the wine a sense of place.

Big red and black fruits burst from the glass immediately from the pour, almost hinting at sweetness initially but quickly developing notes of anise, herbs and a savory spice rub. In the mouth the texture is immensely unctuous with lots of the dark cherry and currant fruit coating the palate. Fans of an Old School style of Cotes du Rhone may miss the gamier tones on the palate from using Carignan or Cinsault in the blend, or the tannins and extra acidity from Mourvedre, Different strokes for different folks, and part of what makes the Rhone so much fun and constantly enjoyable to explore. This is a dream wine for 'fruit first' lovers, and a must for helping thaw your senses while braving the harsh season ahead.

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