2016 Deltas Freres, Cotes-du-Rhone Rouge “Saint-Esprit” Rhone Valley, France.
The Delas Côtes-du-Rhône Saint Esprit is made from a blend of Syrah mostly and with just under half being Grenache grapes, it usually consists of 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache Noir, as does this 2016, and of which come from a small village in the Ardèche region. The vineyard have a warm Mediterranean climate set on site with southern exposure on steep granite hillsides provides the best growing conditions for these vines, giving ripe flavors and still retaining good acidity. All the grapes are de-stemmed and fermentation and maceration take place in closed vats for approximately 15 days. Daily pump-overs ensure good extraction, then the wine ages in tank for about 8 months before bottling. The 2016 vintage was great in the Rhone and this Delas Saint Esprit Rouge is opaque/dark and juicy with fine tannins and a spicy kick to go with the opulent fruit. There’s a lot to love here, boyseberry, raspberry, kirsch, pomegranate and tangy plum fruits cascade across the medium full palate and lingering cassis and violets just add to the joyous ease that mark this unbelievably good value Cotes du Rhone. I’ve been a fan for almost 20 years, this and Delas’ Cotes du Ventoux have always over delivered for the price, but this 2016 is one of best I’ve had and should not be missed. Drink now, this is one of the most clean and polished cheap Cotes du Rhone reds you’ll find.
($10-12 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive
