Comprised of 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 5% assorted varieties, the 2011 Cotes du Rhone Villages has a distinctly spicy, peppery and savory profile, with medium-bodied richness and depth on the palate. A solid Cotes du Rhone that has lots to like, it should be consumed over the coming 3-4 years. Owned by the Guigal team, with the wines made by Guy Sarton-de-Joncquey, Vidal Fleury produces a wealth of high quality releases, most of which represent fantastic values. In addition to the northern and southern Rhone releases reviewed here, readers should also look at Issue 209 for the remainder of the southern Rhone efforts.