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“The
Rhône is producing epic wines at much lower
prices than prized clarets."
FT Weekend, February 2008
In February, an intensive tasting schedule in the
Rhône valley re-enforced our view that recent
vintages in this region have been consistently good.
We are delighted to report that 2006 was yet another
excellent Rhône vintage. In summary, both
Northern and Southern Rhône wines display silky
finesse, purity of fruit and unexpected
approachability. The vintage is particularly good for
the perennially under-rated whites.
Robert Parker on the Northern Rhône
“The finest 2006 reds may come closest in
style to the 1991s. The wines do not possess the
density and richness of the 2005s, but they are
neither under-fruited nor under-concentrated. Most of
the 2006 reds possess intense fruit, with fresh
acidity, but less powerful tannins than the 2005s.
The wines should be drinkable at a much earlier age,
and because of their intrinsic balance and
equilibrium, the top efforts should age beautifully
for 10-15 or more years. It is a stunning vintage for
the 2006 whites. Condrieu, Hermitage, St.-Joseph, and
St.-Péray have produced concentrated wines
with high acidity as well as beautiful freshness and
length. It is the finest white wine vintage for the
region since 2001.”
Robert Parker on the Southern Rhône
“The wines are full of charm, elegance, and
ripe tannins with good balance. They will be more
accessible in their youth than the 2005s, but the
purity and freshness suggest they will last longer
than expected.”
The wines can all be purchased immediately for
delivery / storage after the advised availability
date. Prices are per dozen, inclusive of VAT and
subject to our normal terms. Where relevant, we have
included the Wine Advocate’s points out of 100
in brackets.
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