Department 66 Painted Scars Red Blend 2022 is a bold and expressive French red wine from the Cotes Catalanes region of Roussillon. Created by renowned winemaker Dave Phinney, this exceptional wine combines old-vine Grenache and Syrah grown in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains near Maury, France. Aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, including 5% new oak, it showcases remarkable concentration and complexity. Deep crimson in color, the wine reveals enticing aromas of ripe damson plums, blackberry, blueberry, cardamom, and mineral-rich slate. The full-bodied palate delivers rich flavors of blackberry, espresso, dark chocolate, and savory spices, complemented by refreshing acidity and structured tannins. Its powerful character and lingering finish make it an excellent pairing for grilled steaks, roasted lamb, braised short ribs, and hearty Mediterranean dishes.