Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge, Perrin - Château de Beaucastel 2016

Bottled three weeks ago, the 2016 Côtes du Rhône Coudoulet de Beaucastel sports a deep ruby/purple color as well as terrific freshness in its blueberry, violets, raspberry, and spring flower aromas and flavors. Showing the vintages purity and elegance, it still packs ample oomph and richness. Drink it over the coming decade.

Potentially the best Coudoulet I've ever tasted, the 2016 Cotes du Rhone Coudoulet de Beaucastel tasted from foudre was singing. Sourced from 80-year-old vines just outside the Châteauneuf boundary, it's incredibly long and rich for a Côtes du Rhône. Black olives, blackberries and spices fill out the palate of this wine, which must surely be considered a bargain when released.