AOC: Côtes du Rhône
60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 20% Carignan
Most Rhône red wines are made with a blend of Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, and Cinsault. Each grape is grown in its own vineyard and each soil type contributes a unique characteristic to the grapes. Each winemaker in this region creates his own particular style and blend of grapes but in general these wines are known for their easy drinkability and lively fruit flavors.
This wine presents the typical fruit flavors of a Rhône red but has enough acidity and tannins to age a few years and to give it harmony and complexity. Perfect with grilled meats, pizza, hamburgers, and Mediterranean foods and sauces.
From Jeb Dunnuck’s March 2012 issue of the Rhone Report:
2010 Domaine des Cèdres Côtes du Rhône (France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Rhône) $15 The 2010 Domaine des Cèdres Côtes du Rhône is a good wine that’s a blend of 65% Grenache, 15% Carignan, 20% Syrah. Showing loads of red fruits, cedar, ground pepper, and spice characteristics on the nose, it is medium-bodied, chewy, and mouth filling on the palate, with plenty of tannin emerging on the finish. Slightly one dimensional, this nevertheless shows good fruit and has plenty to like. It should drink nicely for 2-4 years. (86 pts.)
