Louis Bernard Côtes du Rhône

At first glance, the name “Louis Bernard” has a very regal appeal to it.  It conjures up images of an old world wine producing family that has passed down the estate and wine-making knowledge for several generations. Ah, but how a name can be deceiving.

Louis Bernard was actually established in 1976 as a cooperative of over 40 estates, centered around Orange, France.  They brought together the expertise and labor of numerous producers under a single label.  In 1990 the label was purchased Boisset Family Estates, a conglomerate of different labels—mostly French.

Currently, Boisset produces several different styles of wine from the Rhone valley under the Louis Bernard name, which are still produced as a cooperative of numerous producers.  Included under the Louis Bernard name you’ll find Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Luberon, Vacqueyras, and Côtes du Rhône to name a few.

The Côtes du Rhône is mostly Grenache, which is typical of wines from Southern Rhone where the warm climate is perfect for this variety.  It’s complemented by Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault.

The nose is fairly soft and simple, with plum, blackberry, bubblegum and toasted oak.  It’s equally soft on the palate.  The flavors are well balanced and enjoyable—mostly plum and blackberry flavors, with mid-palate chocolate.  The finish is reasonably long and fruity.  There is nothing terribly complex about this wine, but it’s enjoyable and priced right at $9.99.

Wine: Louis Bernard
Variety: Côtes du Rhône
Vintage: 2006
Alcohol: 13.5%
Rating: 85
Price Paid: $9.99

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