Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A step up, the 2012 Cotes du Rhone is almost all Syrah that comes from higher elevation vineyards in Vinsobres and the Gard region (western side of the Rhone River). Offering big, bright berry fruits, pepper, olive and hints of meatiness, it is a medium-bodied, elegant and rock-solid Cotes du Rhone that has loads of character.
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Wine Spectator
A solid, gutsy version, with note of plum paste and black currant preserves studded with hints of licorice and singed vanilla. Briar and tobacco details check in on the finish, which shows pleasant grip. Drink now.
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.