91 / A+
Tasted by Mike Supple - 10 Nov 2008
Intense, dark purple core with a ruby and purple rim. The aromas are bright and rich with plum and blackberry fruits surrounded by toasted hazelnut, a smack of white pepper and a hint of scorched earth. Fruity and lush on the palate with intense wild blueberry surrounded by earth and white pepper. Medium bodied with great balance of fruit, acid and tannins. This is an incredibly easy wine to drink with a velvety smooth feel and a long, lingering finish with a flair of vanilla.
Delas has done it again, hands down producing one of the best values from France in years! 2007 is an outstanding vintage for the Rhone, and this is an impressively complex wine that packs a ton of flavors. Despite the complexity, it is restrained enough to sip by itself or match up with all kinds of foods from cheeses to pastas to a big juicy burger. The Delas Cotes du Rhone is always a great wine, but they have clearly outdone themselves this year. Grab several bottles now to have on hand for yourself and to impress any winos that may be coming to dinner. (If you buy a bottle, drop me a line and I’ll be there tomorrow!)
A blend of 75% Syrah and 25% Grenache. This just started to hit the country, so if you don’t see it in your local shop right away, ask for it and come back. They make a lot, so there’s plenty to go around!
