Lidl Cotes du Rhone Villages 2022
The simplest, cheapest one and almost the best of the bunch. I don’t think it’s villages quality, rather just basic CdR, and just an OK example. But it’s good for such a quaffer. Good typicity with jostaberries and plums, and without oak of course. A bit overripe, though, high in alcohol, low in acidity. Warm vintage character. OK wine, 83 points. Good value for 1200 HUF (3 EUR).
Michel Marechal Ventoux 2022
Unusual style for the region, unmistakably oak aged. It does not work for me, the oak just feels inappropriate, typicity is lost. Not appealing.. Lacks character, too. Mediocre, 79 points. 1900 HUF.
Domaine Grange Vieille Seguret Cotes du Rhone Villages 2022
Surprisingly red fruit profile. Cherries, red currants, cooked strawberries; it’s quite fresh, too – for the region. Less bold than the norm, but lacks charm, it’s disjointed, foursquare on the palate, with unintegrated acidity and alcohol. Not a wine that drinks well ATM. Try in 2026. 80 points. Can’t remember the price, probably 2200 HUF.
Les Aumoniers Plan de Dieu 2022
A solid basic CdR. There is good typicity here, think ripe, sweet jostaberries, a touch of pleasant rubber (not burnt rubber!). Smooth and bold on the palate, yet unforced, with gently firm tannin and some warmth from the alcohol. Textbook CdR, drinks well, but it’s a bit muted and simple. OK to good, 83-84 points. 2200 HUF or so.