Grapelive Wine of the Week
By Kerry Winslow
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2009 Auguste Clape “Le Vin des Amis” Rhone Red. (Syrah)
This amazing 100% Syrah cuvee is one of the best drinking wines at this price I’ve tried in 2010, and for such a young wine it is remarkably balanced and stylish. Frankly it puts most Syrahs to shame, showing wonderful pure flavors and depth that some wine would only dream of having, even wines that sell for three times the price! The nose has all you’d expect from a Northern Rhone Syrah, be it Cornas, Hermitage or Cote-Rotie, with a mixed of violets, creme de cassis, gamey bacon, minerals and back olives, before a vibrant palate of blackberry, boysenberry, blueberry and cherry fruits with smoke, meaty essence, truffle, mocha, cassis and melted licorice. The finish is crisp and lavender laced with lingering smoke and plumy fruit. The “Le Vin des Amis” 2009 is a top contender for best wine under $25 of the year in my best of 2010 list! ($25 Est.)
92+ Points, grapelive
Available at www.sfwtc.com $24.95
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