A Wine for Tonight: 2007 M. Chapoutier Belleruche Côtes du Rhône


By Kori ~ May 13th, 2010.

Would you like a quick suggestion for a good wine to drink tonight (or this weekend) that won’t break your budget and is widely available? Many of our readers have said this is something they would like, so here is this week’s selection, the 2007 M. Chapoutier Belleruche Côtes du Rhône from the Rhône Valley of France.

Our selection criteria include:

  • A very good Quality rating of >=3.5 stars (out of 5)
  • A price tag of <=$15
  • Must be widely available

The Chapoutier family has been in the Rhône Valley since 1808. In 1879, Polydor Chapoutier bought vines and began producing wines. Now seven generations later, Michel Chapoutier carries on the family tradition. M. Chapoutier has adopted a biodynamic cultivation method in an effort to respect the earth and its terroir. I find it interesting to note that Braille has been used on all M. Chapoutier labels since 1996. It is a tribute both to Maurice Monier de La Sizeranne, owner of the plot of the Hermitage vineyard, la Sizeranne, who is also the inventor of the first version of abbreviated Braille, and to those who are sight-impaired.

2007 M. Chapoutier Belleruche Côtes du Rhône (Côtes du Rhône, Rhône Valley, France): 80% Grenache, 20% Syrah. Dark purple. Nose is a bit tight at first, then some earth and potpourri show through. Flavors of earth, toasted wood, dark chocolate, and black fruits. Medium to full-bodied with lively acidity, medium to high tannins and a long finish. Well-balanced and very food-friendly.
Quality: 3.5 stars (out of 5)
QPR: 5 bangs for your buck (out of 5)
Where to buy: Fred Meyer (Seattle, Washington), $11.79; Available elsewhere, $8 to $14


Filed under: A Wine for Tonight, Five-Bangs For Your Buck Wines, French Wine, Red Wine, Wines Under $15, Wines Under $20, Wines Under $25
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