A good Cotes du Rhone has no pretensions. It's a wine to drink, now or later, and enjoy with almost any meal you put on the table. Yet there is nothing at all simple about what the wine delivers in peppery, spicy fruit smells and flavors. For years, I have bought at least one or two cases of Cotes du Rhone every year, focusing on my favorites of the moment, which have included Grand Prieur, l'Espigouette, Vieux Chene, Guigal, Janasse, Perrin and, of course, Domaine Sainte-Anne (which is really more of a Cotes du Rhone Villages than a simple CDR).
I don't buy nearly as much Cotes du Rhone any longer because 1) the escalating price puts many of them outside my budget for an every day wine and 2) the traditional Cotes du Rhone that I love so much has, in many cases, been replaced by an oak-influenced international-styled wine. This Delas Saint Esprit is a notable exception.
Deep ruby. Probably a high percentage of Syrah in the blend. Subtle smells and flavors unfold as the wine warms from a cool cellar temperature. Peppery overtones plus black fruits and spice. Syrah-type pepper. Medium body and a satisfying peppery finish--subtle enough to make you come back for yet one more sip. Has the simplicity and the complexity of a good Cotes du Rhone.
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