Réserve Grand Veneur Côtes du Rhône

The 2009 Cotes du Rhone Reserve (an identical blend) is soft, ripe, peppery, fruity, opaque ruby in color, with a more narrow palate. While excellent, this racy, reasonably priced wine has to take a backseat to the brilliant 2010.

Juicy and friendly, with flavors of cherry compote and blackberry preserves offset nicely by violet and black tea notes. A streak of graphite keeps the finish fresh. Drink now through 2012.

The 2009 Cotes du Rhone Reserve (70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Cinsault) exhibits a leafy/garrigue/Provencal character intermixed with raspberry and black cherry fruit. The sweetness of the tannins, plump, medium-bodied style, and touch of pepper result in a classic Côtes du Rhône to drink over the next several years.

The plots of the Domaine Grand Veneur are located on slopes where the vines are 90 years old, which guarantees the constant quality of their wines. They are masters at producing fine Rhône wines, with finesse and the tradition of winemaking handed down through generations. This wine starts off with a deep purple color, and has sensuous floral and spice aromas. The depth continues with ripe dark fruit flavors accompanied by cinnamon and clove spices. Enjoy this wine with barbecue-glazed meatloaf and roasted new potatoes with rosemary and garlic.