Guigal Côtes du Rhône 2009, France
There’s a saying that familiarty breeds contempt, indicating how easy it is to overlook the familar, in search of something new. And so it is with wine, where there’s a danger that well established wine brands that are generally always available get overlooked when it comes to reviewing and recommending them. This Cotes du Rhone from the well-known company Guigal is a perfect illustration. I’ve been drinking this wine for 20 years I’d guess, so it is nice to revisit it and discover just what a good drop it is. Made in a more serious and ageworthy style than many Cotes du Rhone from 50% Syrah, 45% Grenache and 5% Mourvedre, it has a meaty, darkly-hued nose with plummy fruit and savoury spice and pepper. On the palate it has a muscular, lean and serious edge – its not a wine that greets you with open arms and phoney air kisses, but one which wants to take its time to get to know you. The black fruit is there, in a big powerful style, with tannin, concentration and juicy acidity. A terrific food wine and one that has structure to age nicely over five years or more. Watch the video for more information, maps and food matching. 9.99, Waitrose, The Wine Society. See all UK stockists on .
