The Côtes du Rhône, from a selection of young-vine Cornas and older Syrah just outside the appellation, strikes a deeper register. Sturdy and mineral-driven, it tastes like the grapes were prompted, gently but insistently, to eke out the pure essence of Syrah in granite. —Anthony Lynch
Inky ruby. An expansive bouquet evokes ripe blackberry, cassis, potpourri and olive, and a smoky mineral nuance builds as the wine opens up. Shows impressive depth as well as energy, offering sweet, spice-tinged black and blue fruit and candied violet flavors that are braced by a spine of juicy acidity. Quite lively for its depth and power, finishing on a gently tannic note, with sharp clarity and spicy thrust.
93 points
Josh Raynolds - Vinous (Apr 2020)
Some slate, dark ripe plums and savory, earthy, spicy and meaty nuances here. Assertive, rustic tannins with plenty to offer on release.
91-92 points
jamessuckling.com (Oct 2019)
I always find a touch more density and concentration in the Côtes du Rhône compared to the Le Vin Des Amis, and the 2018 has a similar bouquet (smoked game, graphite, piercing minerality, and pepper) to go with a richer, medium to full-bodied style on the palate. Textbook Clape, I’d love to see it on my dinner table any time over the coming 7-8 years.
91 points
Jeb Dunnuck (Dec 2019)