2017 Le Caillou

Moving to the 2017s, this will be another great vintage at this address. The 2017 Côtes du Rhône Les Caillou offers a lighter ruby color as well as loads of red fruits (strawberries and cherries), hints of dried flowers, and a medium-bodied, elegant profile on the palate. It’s as drinkable as it gets. Unquestionably, some of my favorite wines in the world come from the estate of Sylvie Vacheron, who has the incredibly talented Bruno Gaspard as well as consultant Philippe Cambie at the helm in the vineyards and cellars. Located in the eastern region of the appellation, south of Beaucastel, and covering a tiny 25 acres, they produce a bevy of Côtes du Rhônes as well as a similar lineup of Châteauneuf-du-Papes. I would classify these wines as quasi-modern as the wines are mostly destemmed, and they do utilize newer demi-muids, yet these are pure, classic Southern Rhône wines that are simply loaded with character. In addition, while the style has undeniably changed to one of more elegance and finesse, these latest 2016s and 2017s pack serious oomph and power.

A blend of purchased and estate wines, the 2017 Cotes du Rhone Le Caillou is unabashedly fun to drink. It's not the most complex wine you'll find, but this full-bodied effort offers vibrant cherry fruit, zesty acids and soft, velvety tannins. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.

Bright, ripe peaches and pears with lemon and yellow-grapefruit nuances. There’s a succinct, smooth and succulent core of flavor on the palate and gently chalky pears to close. Quite restrained. Drink now.