2007 Perrin & Fils Côtes du Rhône-Villages

90 points Wine Spectator: "Very pure, with gorgeous plum and black cherry aromas and flavors laced with enticing spice, graphite and violet notes. Long, very silky finish. Delicious. Drink now."-WS May 8, 2009. Just 20% of the Côtes du Rhône vineyards are entitled to add "Villages" to their name. These are the best vineyard sites, which means if you like Côtes du Rhône, then you'll love Côtes du Rhône-Villages. This wine is produced by the Perrin family of Beaucastel fame, using the same viticultural and winemaking techniques they use in making their famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It is a blend of 50% Syrah and 50% Grenache from two specific vineyard plots that are among the best in the Rhône Valley. The 2007 Côtes du Rhône-Villages from Perrin & Fils is an absolute pleasure to imbibe. Like a great dinner guest, this juicy but perfectly balanced red will integrate seamlessly with many mediterranean inspired dishes and end up making quite an impression at your next meal. Chorizo and a hunk of Manchego? Chanterelle pizza? Rosemary skewered lamb kebabs? This 2007 should definitely be one of your go to wines. Open a bottle and watch it disappear. 13% abv.(Mulan Chan-Randel, K&L Wine Merchants)