M. Chapoutier Cotes du Rhone Belleruche Red Blend

March 14, 2019

M. Chapoutier Cotes du Rhone Belleruche Red Blend.
Less than $12.00 at Fine Wine & Spirits on Gandy.

Lauren says, “Rusty purple color. Scent of grass, wet gravel, and oak. Light to medium bodied. Sharp on the tongue. Flavors of black pepper and pungent/strange tannins. Leaves a slight coating in my mouth that would be more pleasant if it was sweet but it is mostly reminiscent of chemical vanilla extract. Not my favorite. Very bitter, sour, and sharp overall. Not quite undrinkable but approaching that realm for me. 3.5/10.”

Zach says, “Color is ruby with a rim of light pink. This wine really needs to breathe. When first opened, the wine is extremely closed with a pungently sulfurous nose. After some time, the nose is still unexpressive, but not totally miserable. Mild notes of dark fruit, fresh wood chips, and asparagus. The taste leaves much to be desired. Moderate tannins are totally isolated. There is very little in the way of fruitiness or acidity. Tannins last for up to 30 seconds, but —without balance—the sensation feels like a lingering, disturbing grittiness. Medium-bodied mouthfeel, but thin texture is confusing and unenjoyable. I would NOT buy this wine again. 4/10”