Domaine Jean Louis Chave Mon Coeur Cotes du Rhone 2022 750ml

This is a delicious wine that represents very good value for the appellation. Chave owns vines in 9 of the 18 vineyards that cover the Hermitage hillside. Keenly aware of the different dynamics fruit from different parcels can have, Jean-Louis pays close attention to the terroir-influences when selecting fruit for this, his top cuvee. He uses little to no oak on his wines, believing that the innate character of the fruit is what makes a truly great wine. In this vein, he intervenes with filtering or fining minimally, if at all.

Jeb Dunnuck writes: A year-in, year-out smoking value as well as a great bottle of wine, the 2021 Côtes du Rhône Mon Coeur checks in as equal parts Grenache and Syrah brought up in neutral oak. Its vivid ruby hue is followed by a medium-bodied, elegant, lively red offering pretty red and black berry fruits, some spring flowers, peppery herbs, and gamey nuances, fine tannins, and nicely integrated acidity. Coming from a cooler year, it still brings plenty of richness and depth and is well worth seeking out. - Jeb Dunnuck 91

Kristen Bieler writes: Dark and brooding, with a dense core of black fruit and melted black licorice set against a savory wave of salty minerality and tapenade. Singed apple wood imparts an appealing smokiness, with spicy and meaty notes playing out on the medium-length finish. Syrah and Grenache. Drink now through 2027. - Wine Spectator 90