The 2022 Domaine La Roubine Sablet is way better than it should be. After all, it's "just" a Côtes du Rhône Village wine, albeit one of the 22 villages allowed to append its name to the CdR on the label. It's a little more rustic than neighboring Gigondas and not as flashy as Chateauneuf-du-Pape, but holds its own on so many levels. It's plush and verges on sophistication, but has a directness and approachability that's surprising and refreshing. The wine is young and boisterous, so don't be afraid to give it 30-60 of air before you start drinking. It has an amiable softness around the edges, making it a joy to drink. It's multidimensional, so don't be afraid to linger over dinner -- with any luck, your conversation will open up and evolve as nicely as this wine will open up and evolve with a little air.