Les Dauphins Reserve, Blanc Cotes-du-Rhone 2013
The Data
Country France
Appellation Cotes-du-Rhone
Varietal White Blend
Retail Price $12.99
ABV 12.5%
Score 4 Stars/90 points
In the Glass
Appearance
Brilliant, pale straw color.
Aromatics
The nose is fresh and floral with scents of red grapefruit, white peach, and apricot with hints of mineral and citrus zest.
Flavor
The palate is in full agreement with the nose delivering a vibrant, fruit-driven core with flanking notes of mineral and crisp lemon zest.
Intensity & Texture
Medium-bodied and vibrant with a generous dose of crisp acidity.
Cool Factor
While the reds of the Côtes du Rhône are rapidly gaining fans the whites are too often overlooked, which is a mistake. When fresh, like the Les Dauphins, they are beautiful and versatile.
Value Grade
We need more cheap and cheerful whites with depth and style like the Les Dauphins Blanc
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 Blanc is made with a classic blend of 65% Grenache Blanc, 15% Marsanne, 10% Clairette, and 10% Viognier.
How to Enjoy
Serve well chilled at happy hour or pair with fruit and chilled seafood.