Winemaker Notes
This vibrant young red delivers a sumptuous hit of ripe red fruit, accompanied by just a hint of cinnamon spice and soft, smooth tannins.
It's incredibly good value for money and is particularly good when accompanying a juicy steak or grilled meats.
Professional Ratings
-
Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
The 2024 Cellier des Dauphins CÔTES DU RHÔNE RÉSERVE opens with a medium ruby color and inviting aromas of plummy, dark fruits, accented by a subtle touch of clove; on the palate, it is medium-bodied with a pleasing tautness that keeps the black fruit flavors focused, while a hint of black licorice adds depth and intrigue; the wine finishes with a tangy lift, leaving a clean and lively impression—best enjoyed with a classic French bistro dish like roast chicken with herbs or a simple steak frites, where its balance and savory edge can shine. (Tasted: April 14, 2026, San Francisco, CA)
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Typically thought of as a baby Chateâuneuf-du-Pape, the term Côtes du Rhône actually doesn’t merely apply to the flatter outskirts of the major southern Rhône appellations, it also includes the fringes of well-respected northern Rhône appellations. White wines can be produced under the appellation name, but very little is actually made.
The region offers some of the best values in France and even some first-rate and age-worthy reds. Red wine varieties include most of the Chateâuneuf-du-Pape varieties like Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Counoise, as well as Carignan. White grapes grown include Grenache blanc, Roussanne and Viognier, among others.