A terrific effort, the 2016 Cotes du Rhone Villages Sainte-Cecile Cuvee Philippine is a blend of 55% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 10% Carignan. Picked at yields resembling those of Châteauneuf-du-Pape (35 hectoliters per hectare), this full-bodied, opulent wine equals some of its more famous brethren. Exhilarating black cherry fruit cascades across the palate, bringing with it hints of garrigue, pepper and licorice, then glides to a long, serene, silky finish. It should drink well for at least 5-6 years.
92 points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate (Issue # Interim - Nov 2017) |