Les Dauphins Reserve, Rouge Cotes-du-Rhone 2013
The Data
Country France
Appellation Cotes-du-Rhone
Varietal Red Blend
Retail Price $12.99
ABV 13%
Score 4.5 Stars/94 points
In the Glass
Appearance
Deep, crimson red with hints of ruby.
Aromatics
The nose classically represents the region offering waves of ripe and dried tart berries with accents of earth, wild flowers, brown baking spices, and dried herbs.
Flavor
The palate echoes the nose delivering a juicy core of ripe black fruits with flanking notes of herbs, earth, and spice.
Intensity & Texture
Medium-bodied with ideal balance along with a vibrant dose of acidity and soft tannins.
Cool Factor
Who doesn't love a good Côtes du Rhône sold at a sensible price?
Value Grade
I drink a good deal of Côtes du Rhône because it's hard to find wines that offer more pleasure and style for the dollar.
Analysis
The wines from Les Dauphins have taken Europe by storm. The perfect combination of style, hedonistic pleasure and value have made the brand an overnight success. Now these wines have arrived in the US. Their Côtes du Rhône Rouge is made with a classic blend of 70% Grenache, 25% Syrah, and 5% Mourvedre from vines that average 30 years in age.
How to Enjoy
This needs nothing more than a glass but it's fantastic with nearly everything from pizza to Coq au Vin. Like many Côtes du Rhône the beautiful wine is extremely versatile seamlessly marrying with a wide variety of dishes or occasions.