Monday, July 18, 2011

M. Chapoutier Belleruche Blanc Cotes-du-Rhone 2009


Cotes-du-Rhone is one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions, known primarily for its easy-drinking reds that offer superb value. This white wine from Michel Chapoutier is a great introduction to the region.

Belleruche Blanc is food-friendly wine with a cast of off-Broadway grapes that put on a command performance. It is a blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Clairette, and 20% Bourboulenc.

The wine is pale yellow in color. The aroma is of green apples, citrus, and exotic fruit. I found the wine refreshing with crisp acidity balanced with fat flavors of fruit.No oak is used, so the flavors are bright and fresh. The finish has good length.

It’s a serious and enjoyable wine. Refreshing as Sauvignon Blanc, but with an air of intrigue. The price tag is a mere $12.99. Wine from one of the best  French wine appellations for less than $13? Absolutely!

The Chapoutier family has been making wine in the Rhone Valley since the 19th century and have been leaders in sustainable winemaking. Another cool aspect of their wine is the label, which is overwritten in Braille so that visually impaired persons can read the name, appellation and other information to enhance their enjoyment.

Full disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.

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