Chateau de Beaucastel Coudoulet Rouge 2009

"Beaucastel's Cotes du Rhone is like a mini Chateauneuf-du-Pape in its blend of grapes and its sourcing, just outside that famous appellation. The 2009 is a very successful and flattering Coudoulet, with scents of garrigue and cherry followed by a palate that's round and lush without being at all heavy. Long and velvety on the finish."

91 Points

Wine Enthusiast

"Full ruby. Intense, smoke- and spice-accented aromas of dark berries and cherry, along with powerful licorice and floral qualities. Broad, deeply pitched blackberry and cherry compote flavors stain the palate, showing surprising vivacity. Finishes with slow-mounting tannins and impressive persistence, leaving a licorice note behind."

91 Points

International Wine Cellar

"This dark and alluring red delivers nicely layered cherry preserves and blackberry cobbler notes, backed by black licorice snap and smoldering tobacco flavors on the lengthy finish. More polished and forward than usual, but this has the stuffing to cellar mid-term. Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah. Drink now through 2014. 1,325 cases imported."

90 Points

Wine Spectator

"In total contrast, the 2009 Cotes du Rhone Coudoulet red represents the essence of Provence in its notes of ground pepper, new saddle leather, lavender, kirsch, garrigue, and abundant red and black fruits. This complex, evolved, luscious red begs for a bloody grilled steak. With a creamy, medium to full-bodied texture, this gorgeous, complex, evolved wine should be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years."

90 Points

The Wine Advocate