The Cotes du Rhone Grande Réserve is produced from a blend of 60% Grenache, 27% Syrah, 10% Carignan and 3% Cinsault.
The grapes come from two parcels - the first north of Orange on slightly stony and clayey calcareous soils, the second south of Orange on alluvial terraces with many pebbles. The vine age is 30 to 50 years.
The grapes are destemmed and macerated for around 15 days. Aging is in oak barriques for 6 to 12 months.
Darren Harris
Bright crimson colour. Fresh cherry, raspberry, violet and spice on the nose - very similar to the 2011 in aromatic nuances.
Elegant and supple palate. Background notes of liquorice, tar and smoke but the overriding impression is that this is a Cotes-du-Rhone of freshness, minerality and purity. It is not a big wine - the fruit is juicy and vibrant, medium weight and without any rustic notes.
A top successor to the very popular 2011.
Chateau Beauchene
