Although the weather makes the beginning of summer seem far off here in the Northeast, I want to introduce you to a great summer Rhone valley white (at a drinker friendly price $11.99.) It’s a Cote du Rhone Reserve from Famille Perrin.
Famille Perrin are "Négociants" by definition. This is the French wine equivalent of a sales / marketing team, exporter, and frequently producer of regional wines. Famille Perrin produce the iconic Chateau Neuf du Pape wine "Chateau Beaucastel" and California winery Tablas Creek in the Santa Barbara AVA.
This wine is a perfect summer white and a great alternative to citrusy Sauvignon Blanc or oaked Chardonnay. It’s got a floral bouquet, fruit on the palate, and a sublime dry finish all for $11.99!
Clearly the Rhone Valley is a mainstay of French wine drinkers, but more of an untapped treasure to many US consumers. For those who are grade conscious, the Rhone Valley is the source of the most 90 + rated wines of any French wine region.
So enjoy, seek out this value as you languish in warm summer sun wherever it may be found.
