Côtes du Rhône is virtually a synonym for “not-too-fancy French red,” said Eric Asimov in The New York Times. But this earthy wine is a textbook example of the “changes that have transformed the French wine industry in the last 20 years.”
A new generation of Rhône winemakers is creating “a surprising number of plush, polished wines.” A Times panel recently sampled 25 Côtes du Rhônes. Our three favorites:
Domaine le Garrigon Côtes du Rhône 2006 ($14)
“Best value.” This pleasantly aromatic wine proves Côtes du Rhône “can still be an excellent value.”
Domaine Grès St. Vincent Côtes du Rhône 2006 ($13)
Bright, complex, and a close second for top honors.
Château de Fonsalette Côtes du Rhône 2004 ($57)
“Flavors of spice and menthol.”
