Grapelive Wine of the Day
By Kerry Winslow
***
2010 Cave de Chante Perdrix, red Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes, Syrah, Northern Rhone, France.
Just when you thought 2009 could not be bettered in the Northern Rhone, 2010 turns out amazing as well with classic flavors, bright acidity and suburb balance, and it looks as if there will be some stunning deals, like this Chante Perdrix Syrah. Honestly this Collines Rhodaniennes beauty had me thinking Cornas or top St. Joseph, and I was crazy happy to hear the price, this is a fantastic true Syrah that delivers poise and depth, and most importantly is a joy to drink now. I’ve always enjoyed the wines of Cave de Chante Perdrix and found them full of flavor and interesting complexity, and this wine continues my affection for this producer, in fact I’m even more impressed than ever as a result of tasting this Syrah. The nose is bright with wild flowers, violets, garrigue, earth, game and fresh cracked peppercorn before a palate of olallieberry, boysenberry, blueberry, plum and kirsch liqueur with white pepper, lavender, truffle and roasted herbs. This is a fun and nice Syrah that has just enough tannin to feel grippy, but that drinks easy and makes it super with food, again, this is a lovely wine and one I will have often while it lasts.
($18 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
*Available at www.sfwtc.com ($15.95)
***