Château Courac, Côtes du Rhône (Rhône Valley, France) 2021 ($13, Tri-Vin Imports)

I always enjoy finding a bottle that outperforms its price point, and Château Courac’s Côtes du Rhône does just that. It provides nuance and complexity that is not normally found at under-$15 prices. Its bouquet is earth driven with potting soil, wet leaves, and dried cranberry while its flavors bright with red fruit ranging from wild strawberry to tart pomegranate. This Côtes du Rhône is nicely balanced, with both the acidity and tannic structure to enjoy with food or as a solo glass. Rhône red blends are well known for their approachability and widely appreciated within both the early drinker and experienced consumer categories. This is a bottle to purchase and drink – no need for further aging.
92 Vince Simmon