Has great, juicy fruit with flavors of sweet raspberries and strawberries; its more serious side shows layers of austere tannins. It should age well, at least over five to 10 years.
— R.V.
(3/1/2004)
Potent in the nose, with stylish cola and licorice aromas. The palate is super sweet, lush and tasty, with a full blast of black plum, black cherry and chocolate flavors. The tannins are drying and strong, but they intermix with the powerful fruit to create a coffee-like taste and mouthfeel. Very good and gets better with airing. Editors’ Choice.
— M.S.
(9/1/2003)
A terrific value, Magni’s Côtes du Rhône comes from an area just outside Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s Coudoulet lieu dit. The blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah is full bodied and richly textured, with vibrant fruit flavors of dark berries and savory overtones. Its long, velvety finish suggests drinking now and over the next 5–8 years.
— J.C.
(10/1/2012)
This super bargain reflects the charm of the 2011 vintage in its supple tannins and forward fruit. It’s lush and creamy textured, with expressive notes of kirsch, spice and cocoa. Drink now–2017.
— J.C.
(10/1/2012)
More than half of the blend is Viognier, which no doubt accounts for its dramatic aromas and flavors of exotic tropical fruit, only just reined in by more citrusy notes. It’s full bodied and round in the mouth without being at all flabby, with a crisp, clean, lingering finish. Drink it over the next year.
— J.C.
(10/1/2012)
Beaucastel’s Côtes du Rhône is like a mini Châteauneuf-du-Pape in its blend of grapes and its sourcing, just outside that famous appellation. The 2009 is a very successful and flattering Coudoulet, with scents of garrigue and cherry followed by a palate that’s round and lush without being at all heavy. Long and velvety on the finish.
— J.C.
(7/1/2012)
Colombo is an uncompromising winemaker and this is far and away the best Côtes-du-Rhône I have had this year. An amazing deep, dark crimson color, with aromas of black fruit, anise and lavender. Full-bodied in the mouth and finishes well. At $9 it's a steal.
— W.E.
(11/15/1999)