Not sure this was a proper bottle but no obvious faults. This wine is usually solid year in and out, but hopefully, there will be a chance to revisit. Deep salmon pink in color. The nose is like a watermelon liqueur. The alcohol is really out of proportion. On the palate, this is tart and bitter and the alcohol continues to stand out. There is some watermelon and cherry fruit. Not sure what is going on here.
A classic Gigondas producer. A blend of 78% Grenache, 14% Syrah, with the rest made up of Cinsault and Mourvèdre. Ruby in color (a bit lighter), mostly clear and bright. Lovely nose with raspberries and bitter cherries. Some herbs come out with air. On the palate, a slight cough syrup quality, but very tasty. The alcohol is a bit noticeable at first but it blows off with some air. Light tannins. Cherry, bitter cherry and raspberries over a bit of alcohol and char. Some herbs and spice mix in as well. Long finish. This should improve over the next few years and drink great for ten
Always a great value, the price has snuck up a bit and this was a bit disappointing considering all of the hype over the vintage. That said, it was still a very good wine for a reasonable price. Ruby in color, clear and bright. The nose has a cherry candy quality to it. Also a sour cherry note. On the palate, this is very sweet/tart. Sweet cherries almost cloying but not quite playing off a tart sour cherry note. Medium tannins. Ok finish. And interesting wine that may settle down some and improve. It will work well with stews and meat dishes.
This is a go to wine at parties, weddings, etc. as it is often served due to its low price. It retails for around $13 and is an exceptional value. Of course, in great vintages, it is usually even better and 2016 is another great vintage. Purple in color. The nose has boysenberries, dark cherries, charcoal and pepper. On the palate, there is some fruit here but this is not a fruity wine. It has nice fruit with an underlying minerals/earthy streak and good balance. Works well with a wide variety of food. Drinks easy but has some interest and depth.
This producer used to be known as Font de Michelle but has re-branded using this name. It is a very traditional CdP with about 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre according to the back label. Purple in color. The nose has black cherry and spice and a bit of a liqueur note. Very nice chewy mouth feel. Black cherries, a bit floral and cherries along with some alcohol on the palate. Long finish. This should pair well with stews, charcuterie and roasts. Both 2015 and 2016 are great vintages in CdP. This one easily has a decade or more left to enjoy.
When I saw this being opened, I had no hope. But, it showed well. Past prime and this was never a great wine (not a good vintage), but a very enjoyable wine. Garnet in color, mostly clear and bright. The nose has dried raspberries but a touch of fresh with dried floral notes and spice. Medium bodied. Tannins resolved. Good acidity. On the palate, raspberry fruit with some depth and complexity. No off notes. Good finish. Way to go! Drink now if you have this, but at least give it a chance. It went well with some pasta.
