2021 E Guigal Cotes-du-Rhone Rouge, Northern Rhone

The 2021 Côtes Du Rhône has to be considered a success in this challenging vintage, and it's well worth drinking. Ripe red and black fruits, violets, and peppery notes emerge on the nose, and it's medium-bodied, with a supple, elegant mouthfeel and a good finish.

88 points jebdunnuck.com

E. Guigal Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge is a classic wine that perfectly embodies the rich history and tradition of the Northern Rhône. Known for producing wines that blend power with elegance, E. Guigal has been a household name in the Rhône Valley for decades. The winery was founded by Etienne Guigal in 1946, and since then, it has grown into one of the region's most respected producers. Their Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge is an accessible yet high-quality red, made from a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, which are typical of the region and perfectly suited to the Mediterranean climate.

The winemaker, Philippe Guigal, has carried on his family's legacy with a focus on creating wines that reflect the character of the terroir. Known for his precision and attention to detail, Philippe ensures that the Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge is a wine that is approachable yet full of depth. The wine is fermented in stainless steel to preserve the freshness of the fruit, and it is aged in a combination of oak barrels and concrete tanks, giving it complexity and a nice roundness without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, E. Guigal Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge has a deep ruby red color, indicative of its rich fruit and full-bodied character. The nose is a fragrant blend of ripe red fruits like cherry, raspberry, and plum, along with hints of black pepper, herbs, and subtle earthy undertones. There’s also a touch of spice from the oak aging that adds depth and complexity to the bouquet.

On the palate, this red is smooth and medium-bodied, with ripe fruit flavors of red berry and plum, complemented by a bit of peppery spice and a slight herbal note. The tannins are soft and well-integrated, giving the wine a nice balance of structure without being too heavy. The acidity is fresh, providing lift to the wine and keeping it lively on the finish. The lingering notes of fruit and spice make it a great choice for food pairing, and it’s a wine that you can enjoy now or cellar for a few years for additional complexity.

E. Guigal Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge is an incredibly food-friendly wine, perfect with grilled meats, hearty stews, or a charcuterie platter. It also pairs well with Mediterranean dishes like ratatouille, lamb, or grilled vegetables. Whether you're enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it with a meal for friends, it’s a wine that hits all the right notes.