Michel et Tina Gassier Côtes du Rhône Rouge '23

Michel et Tina Gassier’s Côtes du Rhône Rouge is a modern, Grenache-driven Rhône blend (80% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah) offering a rich, fruit-forward style with freshness and finesse. Sourced from both banks of the Rhône River—pebble-rich soils add power while white clay soils contribute structure—the wine is vinified with minimal intervention, using long maceration, native yeasts, and aging in concrete for one year. Tasting Notes: Deep ruby color with aromas of blackberry, cassis, violet, thyme, and licorice. The palate is plush, velvety, and fresh, with fine-grained tannins and a savory herbal edge. Winemaking: De-stemmed, fermented cool, no SO2 added until racking, bottled with minimal sulfites. Farming: Organic practices, massal selection, and on-site grafting to preserve vine health and diversity. Rating: 91–93 points, Jeb Dunnuck Food Pairing: Grilled meats, pizza, lamb, goat cheese, swordfish, and Mediterranean dishes Drink Window: 2024–2029