video review: wine of the week

15th April 2012

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 Côtes du Rhône 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 Côtes du Rhône from 50% Syrah, 45% Grenache and 5% Mourvèdre, 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 wine-searcher.com.

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