Maison Tardieu-Laurent was founded in 1996 by Michel Tardieu and Dominique Laurent, though for many years the business has been the exclusive domaine of the Tardieu family. Today, it is run by Michel, his son, Bastien, and daughter, Camille. When Michel started the business, he would ask the growers he worked with two questions: in their appellation, which producers' wines did they enjoy drinking and if they had some friends or producers with well-located, old vines who might be interested to work with him. The result is an extensive network of “partner vignerons” — farmers with whom the family have long-standing relationships, almost all of whom have enviable holdings of old vines in the northern and southern Rhône’s most prestigious appellations. Today, this word of mouth and handshake model is still how the family conducts their business.

The Tardieu-Laurent Cairanne is a beautiful blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah that sits in the glass a brilliant ruby red. The Cairanne presents seductive aromas of dark fruits — blackberry and currant — on the nose with a hint of violets. The palate is soft and sensuous with ample dark red and black fruit flavors supported by an uplifting acidity and delicate tannins. There is a satisfying umami quality that leads to this wine's long, delightful finish. Pair with pan-seared chicken thighs braised with oyster mushrooms or Tunisian lamb kebobs off the grill.