Showing more richness and depth, the 2012 Cotes du Rhone Belleruche Rouge possesses classic Southern Rhone notes of black cherries, spice and background earthiness to go with a medium-bodied, fruit-loaded profile on the palate. It too should be consumed over the coming couple of years and offers high quality for not much buck. Drink now-2015.
While more known for his top-flight Northern Rhone efforts, Michel Chapoutier produces a bevy of brilliant Chateauneuf du Papes, as well as a number of high quality, value-priced wines from throughout the Southern Rhone (and Languedoc).Looking first at his Marius wines, these are straightforward, yet impressively made wines that offer easy-drinking. They also sell for a song and over-deliver.
As to his Chateauneufs, he normally releases three cuvees, the La Bernardine being a blend and the Croix de Bois and Barbe Rac both single vineyard, 100% Grenache releases. Both 2011 and 2012 are strong here.
Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900