Perrin Reserve Cotes du Rhone, 2009

I have found the Perrin family to be one of the most consistent producers of Southern Rhone wines. From the inexpensive La Vieille Ferme Ventoux ($6 to $8) to the top-of=line Chateau Beaucastel Chateuneuf du Pape ($60 to $80), Perrin wines always rank near the top in quality and, of course, flavor. Pierre Perrin knows how to find great overlooked vineyards (there are actually many of these in the Southern Rhone). The wines that result are always full of bold fruit-oriented flavors and aromas, true to their origins and traditions. What's even better is that the price is always relatively low. I paid only $7.99 for this at Cost Plus World Market. Bravo! and thank you, Perrin family.

Just as its 2007 sibling was at this stage, the 2009 Cotes du Rhone is bursting with pepper, spice and lively fruit--cherries and red raspberries. It has the aggressive  peppery qualities that I love in a good Cotes du Rhone. There is excellent fruit concentration on the mid-palate followed by an elegant finish. I barely notice the tannins, although they are obviously substantial. The wine is beautiful to drink now, but I suspect it will get even better over the next year or two.