From the esteemed Guigal family in France’s Rhône Valley, the 2023 Côtes du Rhône is a benchmark of the appellation, combining the generous fruit of Grenache with the darker, more savoury character of Syrah and the structure of Mourvèdre. Sourced from a patchwork of Rhône Valley vineyards, the blend reflects Guigal’s commitment to consistency and quality, with traditional winemaking and extended maturation lending polish and depth to this approachable yet characterful red.

The nose is inviting and expressive, with ripe blackberry, blackcurrant and dark cherry complemented by cracked black pepper, liquorice and dried Mediterranean herbs. The palate is supple and full-flavoured, offering generous dark fruit alongside hints of plum, spice and earthy savouriness. Rounded tannins provide a smooth, satisfying texture, while fresh acidity keeps the wine lively and balanced through a persistent, gently peppery finish. There is an appealing combination of richness and drinkability here, with enough savoury complexity to make it a versatile companion at the table. A classic southern French red, equally at home alongside charcuterie, grilled sausages or slow-roasted lamb. In its handy half-bottle format, it is an excellent choice for a midweek glass or a smaller shared meal.