2000 Louis Bernard Cotes du Rhone Villages

[dananne]

Now this one was lovely. Beautiful ripe plum color, with a very floral nose with a hint of earthiness. Deep, lush black fruits with earth and a finish that lasts awhile and brings a touch of vanilla. Silky smooth tannins give it a nice medium weight. Easily better than the '99 d'Arenberg Footbolt that preceded it. Decanted 30 minutes before 1st pour and through evening. 13% alc. Paid only $13 for it, and that was a steal. FWIW, WS gave it a 91, and it made the top 100 list a few years back. Wish I had bought more than 1 bottle. I've seen the '03 on the shelf and may have to give it a try.

[wdonovan]

Don't expect the 03 to be anything like the 00 or 01. For available choices, you should like the 03 Perrin or 03 Santa Duc. Much in style like the 001 or 01 Bernard.

[wondersofwine]

I find the Cotes du Rhone to usually be enjoyable and a bargain. One I especially liked was from Chateau de la Solitude.

[dananne]

Thanks for the recs!