Opaque, dark ruby red, the rims are purple. The nose is woody and of course possible to get red forest berries. But damson is there too. In the mouth, still damson is the dominant aroma, then plum and acidity is satisfying. Oaky notes like smoke comes out with swirling and some leather is possible to find. The spicy complex characteristics of Syrah and Grenache are definitely well performed in this bottle, with a high acidity. Fruit, acidity, oak, different aromas in a complex structure, everything is there for a good balance. This medium to full bodied lovely juice is not so special, not so close to perfection but definitely a great table wine with a warm moderate final by the alcohol. Anything you expect from a producer like Guigal, is in this bottle. I am not as professional as able to give drinking windows but I think this wine can wait for some years without losing any strength, but not too long. For the next 5-6 years can be still very tasty, who knows maybe even better. The internet page of the producer says that it is possible to age 20 years. Interesting length for a table wine... Also the internet site has different grape percentages than given on ALKO´s internet site. With a great price-quality ratio, this wine is a great daily wine which can accompany to a big variety of relatively strong (not too strong!) dishes, mostly red meats, game and stews. If you think that French table wines are a bit overstated, this wine can change your mind. Enjoy it during a dinner with friends or family, as I did both, or even with some very light cheese, just enjoy the wine. Especially if you got lost in those hundreds of different bottles in the same price category in ALKO. Also I suggest you to learn about Guigal´s production methods and process. Interesting things wait you there. 92/100 Price: 12.98€/75cl/February 2013
May your glass be filled with happiness.
Opaque, purple rims and ruby red in the mid. FIrst nose has vanillin, coffee with milk, dried orange peels. The legs are moderate. The second nose has both fruity and rustic characteristics; watermelon, sour cherry, blackberry, redcurrant, black pepper, caramel, biscuit and leather. The nose is not extroverted but rich. Tannins are very strong at the attack phase but integrated. Medium-bodied. The red forest berries continue in the mouth too. This Cotes Du Rhone has a very fruity nose but the tannic structure in the mid-palate gives a feeling like a typical Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is not for everyone and has a moderate-long final. It is a table wine and can fit a wide variety of dishes; stews, barbecues, even it can handle some light cheese types. The price-quality ratio is fine, a good everyday´s table wine. 85/100 Price: 15,95€/75cl/April 2013
