Cotes du Rhone 2016 Vidal-Fleury

Vidal-Fleury has a long history dating back to the 1700's. It was one of the wineries visited by Thomas Jefferson on his trip to France in 1787. Today they are considered one of the most consistent producers in the Rhone Valley. The Guigal family took over several years ago and have completely modernized the operation while still following traditional methods. This wine from the incredible 2016 vintage is a true standout. The blend is 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 5% Carignan. Long and traditional macerations of 2 weeks for Grenache and 3 weeks for Syrah and Mourvèdre are done while fermenting with indigenous yeast. The aging is split as 70% ages in the tanks on the lees for added texture and complexity while 30% goes into oak barrels. After aging the wine is bottled unfined.

Jeb Dunnuck said about this 2016 red "Moving to the southern Rhône releases, the 2016 Côtes du Rhône is mostly Grenache and has a perfumed, complex, medium to full-bodied style as well as lots of darker (even some blue) fruits, lavender, and pepper. Drink it over the coming 6-7 years."