Baron de Badassière Syrah IGP Côtes de Thau

- Serve slightly chilled at 14-16°C for a refreshing twist that brightens its spiced fruit character ideal on warm evenings.

- Present in a large tulip-shaped glass to concentrate aromas; add an aromatic sprig of rosemary or thyme as garnish to subtly enhance the wine’s herbal notes.

- Pair with a charcuterie board featuring smoked duck breast black olive tapenade and aged pecorino for contrasting smoky salty and nutty flavors.

- Use as the base for a wine cocktail: gently warm with a cinnamon stick and orange peel then top with a splash of sparkling water and garnish with star anise for a sophisticated aperitif.

- Pair with grilled spiced lamb koftas served with a cooling minted yogurt drizzle and pomegranate seeds to elevate the peppery depth of the wine.

- For presentation serve decanted in a rustic clay or terra cotta vessel to evoke Mediterranean earthiness and enhance convivial drinking experiences.

- Try incorporating it into a red wine gastrique glaze for roasted root vegetables or game meats adding a subtle fruitiness and acidity boost.

- Best enjoyed during an outdoor sunset picnic paired with grilled vegetable skewers brushed with smoked paprika and a side of warm flatbread.

For optimal storage of red wine:

- Temperature: Store unopened bottles consistently between 55°F and 65°F (13°C to 18°C) with about 55°F (13°C) often considered ideal to slow aging while preserving quality. Avoid temperatures above 70°F (21°C) or below 45°F (7°C) as extremes can damage the wine.

- Light exposure: Keep the wine in a dark environment away from direct sunlight and fluorescent lighting which degrade wine quality through UV radiation.

- Sealing: Ensure the cork is intact and moist to prevent air entry. Proper humidity (50%-70%) helps keep corks from drying and shrinking maintaining an effective seal.

- Bottle position: Store bottles on their side so the wine stays in contact with the cork keeping it moist and preventing it from shrinking thereby preserving the seal.

- Humidity: Maintain humidity between 50% and 70% to prevent cork dehydration or mold growth.

- Opened bottles: After opening reseal tightly and store in the refrigerator at around 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C) to slow oxidation and preserve freshness. Before serving allow the wine to warm to about 60-65°F (15-18°C).

- Special considerations: Avoid temperature fluctuations vibration and strong odors which can negatively affect wine quality. A stable environment designed for wine storage (wine cellar cooler or wine fridge) is preferred.

These recommendations focus specifically on preserving red wine like Syrah balancing the temperature and environmental factors that maintain the beverage’s structure and shelf life both before and after opening.