Ardechois Côtes du Rhône Biologisch

The pepper and leather hit you right away, but then this wave of wild herbs and cherry comes through and it just keeps changing in the glass. Perfectly balanced for a weeknight dinner, and knowing it’s from 30+ year old vines makes that $15 feel like a steal.

That old-vine depth really comes through—the wild herb note hangs around long after each sip, and the cherry fruit keeps it lively. Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, though I’d have liked a touch more pepper on the finish.

The pepper and leather are there like a classic CdR should be, but the fruit from those old vines is what makes it feel special. It’s got a real backbone, not just a simple easy drinker, and the wild herbs linger on the finish. I’d buy it again for a weeknight roast chicken dinner.