Moving to the reds and a solid blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 10% Cinsault that spent 9 months in stainless steel, the 2012 Cotes du Rhone Rhone by Sabon offers up plenty of sweet berry fruit, wild herbs and hints of toast in a medium-bodied, elegant and delicious package. Drink it over the coming couple of years. Drink now-2016.
A fantastic estate that covers close to 44 acres throughout the appellation, Domaine Roger Sabon was created by Roger Sabon in 1952. The estate was taken over by Roger’s sons (Jean-Jacques, Denis and Gilbert) in 1976, and since 2001, the wines are made by Didier Negron, who is Jean-Jacques’ stepson. The estate produces upward of four red Chateauneufs in a given vintage and one white. In addition, they release a solid Cotes du Rhone and Lirac.
Importer: Eric Solomon, European Cellars, Charlotte, NC: tel. (704) 358-1565