2010 Domaine des Coteaux des Travers, Rasteau, Reserve, Cotes du Rhone Villages (Robert Charavin) France.
This amazing Rasteau captures the terroir and vintage in a beautiful snapshot and is a remarkable value, drinking impressively right now. Domaine des Coteaux des Travers has been making some fantastic wines of late and this Rasteau Reserve is showing wonderfully with lively red fruits and anise that explodes across the palate while lavender, blueberry and pomegranate all add to the beauty of this Rhone red that is made up of mostly Grenache, but has a good dose of Syrah as well. The mouth is full and ripe with smooth tannins and juicy acidity providing clear vivid focus to the richness and depth. The boysenberry and melted black licorice are highlighted throughout, but really persist on the finish, making this wine really stand out. Another great find by importer Charles Neal, and one you should search out and stock up by the case full.
($16 Est.) 92+ Points, grapelive
