E. Guigal Cotes Du Rhone 2017

Size: 750ml

Rated 91 by Wine Advocate

The Guigals predict volumes of only 3.5 million bottles for the 2017 Cotes du Rhone, as good wine was harder to source than in 2016. It’s still bright and primary, with cherry fruit seeming a bit one-dimensional at this stage, although there’s a welcome hint of almond paste on the crisp finish.

Rated 90 by Vinous Media

Saturated ruby. Ripe black raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cracked pepper, allspice and pungent flowers. Supple, appealingly sweet red and blue fruit preserve flavors gain energy with air, and a bright mineral element adds back-end lift. Supple tannins add shape to a persistent, floral-accented finish, which leaves cherry and spice notes behind.

There are few wine regions in the world with a history as long and illustrious as that of the Rhone Valley in France. For over two thousand years, wines have been produced in this region, benefited by the excellent, mineral-rich soils of the region, and the varied climate which allows a wide range of grape varietals to grow. The Rhone Valley is now split into two quite separate regions, with the north part being characterized by its cooler, continental climate and the limited number of grape varietals grown, and the southern sub-region being perfect for growing a wide range of grapes, and producing an exciting number of different wine styles. The Rhone Valley is associated with elegant, flavorful wines, and certain grape varietals such as Viognier and Syrah, which are adept at expressing the finer features of their terroir.