The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Two Rhone reds showcase terrific vintage at under $20 apiece
This week’s recommendations include two delicious and affordable red Cotes du Rhone from the terrific 2016 vintage. The Mas de Sainte Croix is higher on the ranking scale for the region, as it is from the Valreas village appellation. It is a contemplative wine, inviting a discussion. The André Brunel, on the other hand, wants to party. We also have a tasty sauvignon blanc from Australia and two sparkling wines to consider for holiday celebrations: A charming Cremant de Limoux from France and a heartier champagnestyle blend from California.
Mas de Sainte Croix “Tendresse d’un Climat” Cotes du Rhone Villages Valreas 2016: two and a half stars; Rhone Valley, France, $16 (great value)
The mouthful of a name yields a mouthful of delicious wine, rich and savory with flavors of raspberries and wood spice. It is a blend of old-vine grenache and syrah, a classic combination of the southern Rhone. Alcohol by volume: 14.5 percent. André Brunel Cotes du
Rhone 2016: two and a half stars; Rhone Valley, $15 (great value)
This lively Cotes du Rhone, from the same vintage as the Mas de Sainte Croix, shows vibrant energy and juiciness. It is easy to drink and disappears quickly. The blend is grenache, syrah and cinsault. ABV: 13.5 percent.
Four Sisters Sauvignon Blanc 2018: two stars; Central Victoria, Australia, $15
Clean and crisp, with some tropical fruit flavors and just a hint of the characteristic grassiness of sauvignon blanc, this is a refreshing wine for casual sipping and light meals. The label boasts the winery’s “carbon zero” status from its efforts to reduce emissions. ABV: 12 percent.
Aguila Brut Rosé: two stars; Cremant de Limoux, France, $15
Here’s a fun pink bubbly from southern France, an unconventional blend of chardonnay, chenin blanc and pinot noir. The winemakers of Cremant de Limoux claim their forebears were making sparkling wine before their counterparts in Champagne became famous for bubbles. The bubbly here is lighter in pressure and lower in prestige (and price) than champagne, which makes it more appropriate for a daily toast. The Aguila rosé is a delightful way to start a meal - light and refreshing, a pick-meup for your palate. ABV: 12.5 percent.
Scharffenberger Brut Excellence NV: two stars; California, $25
Scharffenberger makes reliable, good-value sparkling wine from California that begins to mimic true Champagne character, though the price has climbed in recent years. This one is rich and toasty, with brioche flavors. ABV: 12 percent.
Ratings: 3 stars: Exceptional; 2 stars: Excellent; 1 star: Very good. Prices are approximate. Check Winesearcher.com to verify availability, or ask a favorite wine store to order through a distributor.