A tale of two bbq syrahs

2022 Les Ribaudes Saint Joseph Earthy plum, light coffee, sweet tobacco, brininess that feels separate from black olive, some black peppercorn but very mild. Very approachable now. Outstanding value at $25ish. Price made me skeptical-northern Rhone for cheap-but seeing Kermit Lynch on the back reassured me. 90-92 points.

Mothers milk first drop 2021 Much bigger than the Saint Joseph but also less complex. Ultra ripe red plum, espresso, better persistence and acidity but it’s the density of the fruit that carries it. This is better with bbq but less enjoyable (but still good) on its own. Under $20 makes this a great bbq wine choice. 88-90 points

Served with smoked goat, arm roast and sirloins. Baharat rub, pulled at 115 and finished on the stove. Very good pairing. Neither wine liked the vegetables unsurprisingly.