2007 Domaine d’Aupilhac, Les Cocalières Rouge, Coteaux du Languedoc: This Rhone blend from the Languedoc is one of those wines that you pour with a really nice dinner with friends.  Perhaps a pasta with lamb ragu, or a nice rabbit stew or grilled meat.  As the wine is tasted, by itself and with the meal, listen as your guests describe a wine that is complex, balanced, and powerful yet very elegant with soft tannins.  They might describe spice notes such as pepper or clove, and they might pick up a touch of licorice in the mouthfuls of dark fruit.  More than anything, I’d bet they agree that this fine, obviously pricey, wine was a great choice for the meal and to impress your friends.

Then break it to them that you paid a cool $25 (or so) for the 100% organically grown and produced wine.

That’s right, $25.  Sure it’s not ‘cheap’, but for what you’re getting in this bottle, it’s more than worth the cost.  I’d rate this wine 92 pts and give it an outstanding value rating.  Definitely a wine for people who are looking to get the spice and complexity of Rhone wines but want a little more fruit and elegance.   Highly recommended!

On a side note:  The 2007 Rhone wines that I have tasted have overall been fantastic.  Keep an eye out for your perrenial favorites (Such as Pegau, Chapoutier, Beaucastel, St. Cosme, etc) but don’t be afraid to try out new producers from this excellent vintage!