NOTRE DAME DE COUSIGNAC COTES DU RHONE HOMMAGE LEON POMMIER - 2003

This was my MLB All-Star wine last night, but unlike the National League it didn't come up short. This Grenache-Syrah blend from Southern Rhone was aged in oak barrels and has more kick to it than a benched Pujols in the 9th inning with the bases loaded.

TASTING NOTES:

Dark red-purple color with ripe berries and licorice on the nose. Ripe red fruit, currants, smoke, licorice and spiced earth on the finish. Medium bodied with good structure and a delicate mouthfeel.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

89 PTS

This is an excellent bottle of Cotes Du Rhone for two reasons. First off, it doesn't taste like the typical black-pepper driven, heavy red from this region that I know so well. I'm not a fan of the black pepper mud mix. I prefer the fruit forward, ripe berry and delicate nature of this wine. It explodes a bit on the tongue with nice bright red fruit flavors, yet it is still rustic enough to be true to the region. And reason #2 to love this wine: It is only $10. 'Nuff said.