Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: In the ever-changing world of wine styles, one must be opened to non-traditional types of wines. The 2016 Gérard Bertrand Kosmos is a fun and enjoyable red wine that is crossing the Atlantic with its broad spectrum appeal about it. TASTING NOTES: This wine is bright and juicy. Its grapey aromas and smoothness on the palate make it a nice choice with thin crusted pizza and hot wings. (Tasted: September 10, 2018, 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.
A small category representing the wines that either fall outside of appellation lines or don’t subscribe to the law and traditions set forth by the French government within certain classified appellations, “Vin De France” is a catch-all that includes some of the most basic French wines as well as those of superior quality. The category includes large production, value-driven wines. It also includes some that were made with a great deal of creativity, diligence and talent by those who desire to make wine outside of governmental restrictions. These used to be called Vin de Table (table wine) but were renamed to compete with other European countries' wines of similar quality.