B-21 Top Recommendation Read More
"...It's medium-bodied, has a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, no hard edges, and outstanding length. This is a “wow” Costières de Nîmes." - Jeb Dunnuck
We've seen an explosion in quality and recognition in the lesser-known Southern Rhône appellations in recent years, with names like Cairanne, Vinsobres, and Segueret all entering the mainstream conversation. That conversation, it seems, has yet to extend all the way to the Rhône's most southerly appellation, the Costières de Nîmes, but that doesn't mean it should be overlooked by any stretch of the imagination. Among the reference-point producers here, Michel Gassier is arguably the region's greatest champion and its benchmark for quality. His wines have been stood out for years among more well-known names from up north, but they still come in at prices that make exploration and discovery an enticing proposition. The 2023 Nostre Païs Rouge from Gassier is a classic puncher that far outpaces its humble origins and price. With 94 points from Jeb Dunnuck and a sub-$20 price, this case-buy gem is "medium-bodied, has a layered, elegant mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, no hard edges, and outstanding length." Decanter's Matt Walls extolls its "appealing, full-bodied, generous style that's concentrated but not heavy," which is critic speak for "this wine will definitely please a crowd." If you're a fan of Rhône value gems, Gassier needs to be in your rotation, and the 2023 Nostre Païs Rouge is the perfect place to start. |