2015 was a magnificent year in the south as well, characterized by excellent sanitary conditions thanks to the mild, wet winter, followed by a relatively hot, dry spring. The vines coped well with the extreme heat and lack of rain in the summer thanks to good hydric reserves. Following satisfactory flowering, rapid and regular ripening was assisted by rain that fell in August, producing berries rich in phenolic compounds and anthocyanins. As in the north, harvesting took place under excellent conditions.
Leading off the 2015s from bottle, the 2015 Côtes du Rhône Coudoulet de Beaucastel is impressive with its tobacco leaf, olive, and earthy, dark fruit-driven style. It’s medium to full-bodied, nicely textured, and has fabulous concentration and depth for a Côtes du Rhône. I’d happily drink it over the coming decade. – Jeb Dunnuck
