These are wines widely regarded not only for the pleasure they undoubtedly give but also for their health benefits: when consumed in moderation (of course), Tannat-based wines are considered to be at the heart of the French paradox (see Roger Corder's "The Red Wine Diet" - click here for a review in the Telegraph). The high fat content of the
South-Western diet (lots of duck and foie gras) is, it seems, countered by the high procyanidin content (higher than any other variety). Dr Corder recommends up to half a bottle for men and a third for women to be consumed daily with food. The other
glass could always be used in cooking, I suppose.