Presentation
Presentation
The 30 hectares of Coudoulet are located just east of the vineyard of Beaucastel on the other side of the A7 motorway. For reasons that have now become obvious, Coudoulet is often considered the baby Beaucastel. The Coudoulet soil has many similarities to that of Beaucastel. It is made out of Molasse seabed covered by diluvial alpine deposits. These pebbles called “Galets Roulés” play a big role: They take in the heat during the day and let it if off slowly at night which gives a good start to the vines in the Spring.
The vintage
The winter in 2014 was characterised by mild temperatures for the region and heavy rainfall until mid-March. The heat and water reserves allowed an early start to the vegetation. Spring was dry until late June, with signs of hydric stress in some sectors. However flowering and fruit set were optimal, guaranteeing a great crop. The months of July and August, particularly cool and wet, slowed the cycle of the vine, forcing the winemakers to strengthen surveillance of the vineyard. Early September starts off with two lovely sunny weeks, along with an optimal maturity of the grapes.
Location
30 hectares in Côtes du Rhône.
Terroir
Molasse seabed of the Miocene period covered by diluvial alpine deposits (rolled pebbles), identical to the vineyard of Châteauneuf du Pape.
Ageing
Each variety is harvested manually and separately, then sorted in the cellar. The harvest is heated to 80°C (skins) and then cooled down to 20°C. Classic maceration occurs in cement tanks for 12 days. Pressing in pneumatic presses. Blending of the different varietals after malolactic fermentation. Ageing in Oak Foudres for 6 months.
Varietals
Grenache : 40%
Mourvèdre : 30%
Syrah : 20%
Cinsault : 10%
Mourvèdre : 30%
Syrah : 20%
Cinsault : 10%
Advice
Serving
16°C in tasting glasses.
Tasting
Appearance: bright and lively, with great depth.
Nose: red fruits.
Palate: luscious, with hints of thyme.
Nose: red fruits.
Palate: luscious, with hints of thyme.
Reviews
"The 2014 Coudoulet de Beaucastel Côtes du Rhône is a Provençal, charming effort that’s loaded with dark berry fruit, bouquet garni, leather, and garrigue aromas and flavors. Rounded, forward and still with mid-palate depth, it’s geared for drinking over the coming 5-6 years. "
"On the fuller side of medium-bodied, this respected red Rhône blend features punchy plum and berry fruit with good acid tension. And there are classic regional notes of lavender, licorice and black pepper in the background."
"Bright violet. Intense dark berry and cherry compote aromas are complemented by suggestions of licorice and candied flowers. Palate-caressing black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors pick up peppery spice and lavendar qualities on the back half. Rich yet lively, showing no excess fat. The juicy, focused finish is given shape by silky, harmonious tannins and leaves behind a gently sweet dark berry note."
"This is a spectacular southern French red wine with 30 hectares of vineyards planted just east of the flagship vineyard Château de Beaucastel in the Rhône Valley thus it's often called "baby Beaucastel". Full-bodied with fleshy ripe blackberry jam and black raspberry preserves aromas and flavours. Rich and layered. Pair with roast beef.
Food pairings: braised meats, herbed steaks, venison."
Food pairings: braised meats, herbed steaks, venison."
