Domaine de la Solitude Cotes du Rhone, 2023

I have never tried the Chateauneuf du Pape from Domaine de la Solitude, but it is well regarded. The estate was one of the first to use new oak, with mixed results at best. This Cotes du Rhone, though, was clearly made in the traditional style, and it satisfies my standards for Cotes du Rhone.

Medum ruby, bright and clear. Red berries, plums, spice, black pepper. Intensely fruity with fine, ripe tannins. Nothing in this wine that is not inviting. Everything I like in a Cotes du Rhone, and it sells for $13.99 at Plum Market in Ann Arbor. Should drink well for another two or three years so but why wait?