Winemaker Notes
Les Côtes represents the most powerful expression of the Rouanne terroir. Concentrated flavors of licorice, black pepper and gingerbread. Greatly textured with prominent saltiness and length in the finish.
The distinctive freshness and saltiness of this Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre blend makes it easy to pair with both rustic and sophisticated dishes. The smooth, red fruit character of the wines make it a great choice for tomato-based dishes such as ratatouille, while the richness from the Syrah also allow it to pair with lamb, venison or beef.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The über-impressive 2021 Vinsobres Les Côtes is dark-fruited, complex and savory, with notes of smoked meat, black olives and cracked pepper. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated, it's like a little taste of Hermitage from the Southern Rhône.
Barrel Sample: 94-96 -
Jeb Dunnuck
As with the 2020, there's a Côte Rôtie-like vibe in the 2021 Vinsobres Les Côtes, which has a terrific nose of wildflowers, violets, and raspberries as well as a pretty, elegant, medium-bodied style on the palate. All four of these 2021s will be terrific wines.
Barrel Sample: 90-92 -
James Suckling
Fruity, juicy and supple with a crunchy character throughout. Aromas of red berries, wild herbs, roasted meat and mixed spices. Medium body with fine tannins. Delicate texture, well-balanced and mellow with a flavorful finish. Drink or hold.
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Wine Spectator
A sanguine, smoky red, with a distinct note of smoked bacon overhanging flavors of herbs, wet leaves and dark, brambly berries. Mineral elements lead, with iodine and shaved iron more pronounced than the fruit. The tannins are tamed yet hold firm; the finish is savory, with leafy forest floor and a hint of pleasing chewiness. Syrah, Mourvedre and Grenache. Best from 2026 through 2032. 220 cases made, 125 cases imported.
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.
One of the more established Rhône villages promoted to its own 'Côtes du Rhône Villages' appellation, Vinsobres produces uniquely styled Rhône Blends based on Grenache and Syrah in its relatively cool and elevated vineyards.