2016 Cotes du Rhone Reserve

The 2016 Côtes du Rhône Reserve offers more minerality as well as slightly darker fruits in its blackberries, bouquet garni, spice, and pepper aromas and flavors. Deep, rich, and powerful on the palate, with a weightless style, it has ample oomph, building tannin, and a gorgeous finish. It's one sensational Côtes du Rhône. Unquestionably, some of my favorite wines in the world come from the estate of Sylvie Vacheron, who has the incredibly talented Bruno Gaspard as well as consultant Philippe Cambie at the helm in the vineyards and cellars. Located in the eastern region of the appellation, south of Beaucastel, and covering a tiny 25 acres, they produce a bevy of Côtes du Rhônes as well as a similar lineup of Châteauneuf-du-Papes. I would classify these wines as quasi-modern as the wines are mostly destemmed, and they do utilize newer demi-muids, yet these are pure, classic Southern Rhône wines that are simply loaded with character. In addition, while the style has undeniably changed to one of more elegance and finesse, these latest 2016s and 2017s pack serious oomph and power.