The exquisite Andre Brunel 2009 Cotes du Rhone Cuvee Sommelongue exhibits a dark plum color along with aromas and flavors of prunes, figs, garrigue and black cherry jam presented in a luscious, hedonistic style displaying lots of Provencal complexity. This sumptuous Cotes du Rhone over-delivers for its price point. Andre Brunel’s family first settled in Chateauneuf du Pape in the 18th century and began estate bottling their wines in the middle of the 20th century. Les Cailloux was one of the first estates to employ the now famous oenologist, Philippe Cambie (in 1998). This modestly sized, 45 acre estate has their largest holdings in the northern sector of the appellation in the lieu-dit called Farguerol, which is just behind the plateau of Mont Redon. They also have a significant holding adjacent to Chateau Rayas in the Pignan lieu-dit. However, it is outside of Chateauneuf du Pape where the truly great values emerge. The two cuvees of 2009 Cotes du Rhone are stunning.Importer: Robert Kacher Selections, Washington, DC; tel. (202) 832-9083