Perrin & Fils Cotes du Rhone Villages Vinsobres Les Cornuds, 2004

You don't read or hear much about Vinsobres; and you don't see many Vinsobres wines on the shelves. But from my somewhat limited experience, I would say that it's probably the most underrated appellation in the Southern Rhone. This wine, from the Perrin brothers who produce Chateau Beaucastel and La Vieille Ferme, is a prime example. The bouquet is immediately appealing: black pepper, spice, black fruits and minerals. On the palate, it's much more accessible than the Chaume-Arnaud Vinsobres from the same vintage that I have reported on before. Pepper, licorice and minerals; dark tones that are typical of Vinsobres. According to the label, 35% of the cuvee was aged in new French oak, but the oak has integrated nicely. Smells and tastes like a traditional Southern Rhone. And it has the qualities that attract me to Vinsobres.