Guigal Cotes du Rhone Rouge 2017

(89-91) pts Wine Advocate

The Guigals predict volumes of only 3.5 million bottles for the 2017 Cotes du Rhone, as good wine was harder to source than in 2016. It's still bright and primary, with cherry fruit seeming a bit one-dimensional at this stage, although there's a welcome hint of almond paste on the crisp finish.

90 pts Vinous

Saturated ruby. Ripe black raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by suggestions of cracked pepper, allspice and pungent flowers. Supple, appealingly sweet red and blue fruit preserve flavors gain energy with air, and a bright mineral element adds back-end lift. Supple tannins add shape to a persistent, floral-accented finish, which leaves cherry and spice notes behind.

James Suckling

A very attractive, viognier-based (50%) blend that has fresh apricots, peaches and pears, in a bright, ripe style. Drink now.