B-21 Top Recommendation Read More
Savvy bargain hunters are by now well aware of the stellar quality for price to be found in the relatively new Cairanne appellation. Since its promotion to full cru status, the region has captured the attention of Southern Rhône insiders, and it’s Domaine Alary leading the way.
Father and son Denis and Jean-Etienne Alary are renowned for their track record of consistent excellence, and the flagship Estevenas Rouge defines the domaine’s style and reputation in the market. The 94-point 2021 rendition is “medium to full-bodied, wonderfully silky in feel, with a long, lingering finish … a real showstopper” according to Wine Advocate’s Joe Czerwinski, the Syrah-dominant blend benefitting from some of the oldest Syrah vines in the Southern Rhône. The 2022 La Brunote is a prime example of the Alarys’ wide-ranging repertoire and skill set. The 92-94WA, Mourvèdre-based blend excels in the warm vintage, especially at our market-best price. “Full-bodied and richly concentrated, it's almost creamy in texture, with a lingering finish. Yum,” declares Czerwinski. Finally, the 2022 Estevenas Blanc continues this cuvée’s track record as the benchmark Cairanne white, garnering 93 points for its beguiling complexity and depth combined with a refined sense of balance.
These new arrivals from an old favorite should have fans of the Southern Rhône taking notice. Alary is back at B-21 in a big way, with 2021s that set the pace for the appellation, and a pair of 2022s that are just the first glimpse of some stunning offerings on the horizon from this world-class value star. |