If you know the red wines of Southern Rhone then this might surprise you. 11,5% ABV? Does not taste like an early harvested wine and it turns out that some of its alcohol was just removed. Sounds weird but the result is appealing.

It smells like your typical Cotes du Rhone, ripe and dark, even a bit raisiny, but something does not happen when you taste it – there is no sign of the expected heat from the alcohol. Tannins are firm, everything goes as usual, yet it’s lighter, crisp, with acidity you rarely see in the wines of the region. It may sound controversial, but it works! It drinks so nicely, and you can indeed serve it properly chilled on a hot day. Clever wine. 87-88 points. Currently on sale for 6,40 € at Vinatis, that’s good value.