Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Gabriel Meffre – “Saint-Ferréol” – Tavel Rosé – 2024, Tavel AOP – Southern Rhône – France 🇫🇷

Overview
A classic expression of Tavel, one of the few appellations in the world dedicated exclusively to rosé. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and other Rhône varieties (not disclosed), this style emphasizes structure, depth, and age-worthiness beyond the usual rosé profile.

Aromas & Flavors
Expressive and layered, with ripe strawberry, raspberry, and watermelon, supported by hints of orange peel, dried herbs, and a subtle spicy undertone. More intensity and depth than your typical Provençal rosé.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with noticeable structure and a gentle phenolic grip. Bright acidity keeps it lifted, while the texture adds a slight “bite,” giving the wine presence and persistence through a long, satisfying finish.

Food Pairings
Grilled chicken, Mediterranean dishes, herb-roasted vegetables, charcuterie, or even light lamb preparations. This is a rosé that comfortably steps into red wine territory at the table.

Verdict
A structured and character-driven rosé that stands apart from lighter, more delicate styles. It delivers substance, complexity, and a beautiful finish, perfect for those who want more than just refreshment in their glass.

Did You Know?
Tavel rosés are often called the “rosé for red wine lovers” due to their deeper color, higher structure, and ability to age for several years, something rarely seen in rosé wines.

🍷 Personal Pick
A go-to when I want rosé with backbone, this one brings both freshness and substance, making it incredibly versatile and memorable. Cheers! — 25 days ago

Carmen Ranta

9.3

Balanced in every way. I love it. — 2 years ago

Peggy Hadley

9.0

Another beautiful day in St Martin! — 2 years ago

with Jim

Freddy R. Troya

8.9

Gabriel Meffre – “Saint-Nicolas” – Côtes du Rhône AOP – 2024 – Rhône Valley – France 🇫🇷

Overview
A classic Southern Rhône blend, typically led by Grenache with support from Syrah and Mourvèdre, crafted in a style that balances approachability with structure. This vintage leans toward immediate drinkability while still showcasing the character of the region.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe red berries, plum, and black cherry lead the profile, followed by subtle notes of dried herbs, pepper, and a touch of earthy spice. A hint of juiciness keeps the fruit lively without feeling overly ripe.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with medium-plus tannins that provide gentle grip and structure. Balanced acidity and a smooth texture carry into a well-rounded, satisfying finish.

Food Pairings
Grilled meats, roasted chicken, lamb, herb-driven dishes, or casual fare like burgers and pizza. A versatile, food-friendly Rhône red.

Verdict
Casual yet not understated. This Côtes du Rhône delivers approachability with enough structure to keep things interesting, balanced, easygoing, and reliable.

Did You Know?
Côtes du Rhône wines can include up to 21 permitted grape varieties, but most reds are dominated by Grenache, giving them that signature fruit-forward yet subtly spiced profile.

🍷 Personal Pick
A dependable daily Rhône with just the right amount of grip, easy to enjoy, but not boring. Cheers! — 25 days ago

Neil Valenzuela

9.1

Medium ruby color. Aromas of cherry, raspberry, baking spices and licorice. Solid GSM! Red fruit, pepper and clove on the palate.

🏅94 Points - James Suckling — 10 months ago

Kurt Winrich

9.1

Very standard Cab Sauv on the nose, but the palate is more fruit forward than I expected with hints of blackberry and even a little cherry. Also hints of tobacco. Solid tannins on the finish. — 2 years ago

Brent Hendrich

8.9

This was the white Rhône. — a month ago

John Bratincevic

8.9

Nose: cooking spices, peppers, dark berries.

Taste: nice acidity, peppers (dry, not sweet), savoury spices (I do get the paprika claimed on the label!), dark berries, beeswax. Not my preferred style but well made — and paired well with tacos! 89. — 7 months ago

Dave

9.0

This is a fruity, refreshing little gal. Raspberry, cranberry, vanilla, herbs, violet. Very acidic with soft tannins. Take her to dinner and she'll love you long time.
Listening to Black Sabbath. — 10 months ago

Kurt Winrich

9.1

Pear on the nose; melon on the tongue. Smooth as silk. — 2 years ago