The exquisite Andre Brunel 2009 Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Sommelongue exhibits a dark plum color along with aromas and flavors of prunes, figs, garrigue and black cherry jam presented in a luscious, hedonistic style displaying lots of Provencal complexity. This sumptuous Cotes du Rhone over-delivers for its price point. Andre Brunel’s family first settled in Chateauneuf du Pape in the 18th century and began estate bottling their wines in the middle of the 20th century. Les Cailloux was one of the first estates to employ the now famous oenologist, Philippe Cambie (in 1998). This modestly sized, 45 acre estate has their largest holdings in the northern sector of the appellation in the lieu-dit called Farguerol, which is just behind the plateau of Mont Redon. They also have a significant holding adjacent to Chateau Rayas in the Pignan lieu-dit. However, it is outside of Chateauneuf du Pape where the truly great values emerge. The two cuvees of 2009 Cotes du Rhone are stunning.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083

The 2007 Cotes du Rhone Sommelongue Massif Duchaux is a consistent best buy in these pages. Sexy and seductive, with sweet black currant and black cherry fruit as well as notions of Provencal herbs, smoke, and earth, it is a generously endowed offering to enjoy over the next several years. The brilliant Andre Brunel, and before him, his father, have done conscientious work in Chateauneuf du Pape for many years. Shrewd consumers have long flocked to Andre Brunel’s Cotes du Rhones as they are loaded with personality and quality. Moreover, they sell for a fraction of the price of his Chateauneuf du Papes.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083

The 2006 Sommelongue is a mostly Grenache cuvee, and is fruity, medium ruby-colored, with notes of strawberry and cherry in a straightforward style. Always one of the standard bearers for Chateauneuf du Pape, Andre Brunel has long been a model of meticulous viticulture and vinification. His best values are his lower level wines, especially his Cotes du Rhones from the domaine Sommelongue.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083