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It is interesting to look back at 2009 and see how the economy impacted the wine business. The most obvious trend was the noticeable softening of demand at the premium level in all categories. At the same time, 2009 was lacking many releases consumers were waiting for. 2006 Bordeaux, Burgundy or California Cabs were not viewed as collectible vintages by the wine critics. One region’s wines that did stir up a bit of activity was the southern Rhone. The 2007 vintage looks to be one of the finest in recent memory. Each Chateauneuf-du-Pape that domaines produce are considered their highest quality wine of the vintage. They are also considered some of the best quality-to-price ratios in the industry. What is exciting about this vintage for the southern Rhone is that the high quality of wine produced is applicable to all levels. Even basic versions of Cotes-du-Rhone show extra levels of concentration, length and complexity. At their affordable price points, these wines offer outstanding value and merit serious consideration.
 This month we offer you two Cotes-du-Rhones from the 2007 vintage at discounted prices. The first is an estate bottling from Domaine Solitude. This large and historic estate is ideally situated with great vineyards full of old vines. In the last five years, the Lancon family has begun to produce wines that truly represent the remarkable raw materials here. The 2007 Cotes-du-Rhone shows lovely raspberry, black cherry, earth, spice and licorice flavors. This old vine Grenache dominate wine will help warm up many cold winter nights ahead. Enjoy it with roasts, beef stews or strong cheeses. $12.99
 Our next selection comes from one of the most recognized southern Rhone producers that is most noted for their top level Chateauneuf-du-Pape, which is considered one of the region’s noblest wines, “Chateau de Beaucastel”. The Perrin family’s 2007 Cotes-du-Rhone Village shares many similarities to its counterpart Domaine Solitude. The slight difference is that Perrin is made of equal parts Grenache and Syrah. This wine offers a bit more aromatics of spice and smokiness, deeper structure and a supple finish. Perrin is also classified as a “Cotes-du-Rhone Village” A.C. This classification typically signifies a notch up in quality compared to straight “Cotes-du-Rhone”, the level in which Domaine Solitude is. This however, can be subjective. $13.99
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