2007 Domaine de l'Oratoire St. Martin Côtes du Rhône Villages Haut Coustias

I reviewed the 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Cairanne Haut-Coustias in issue 181, but I had it twice over the last few months, and I was blown away by it, rating it even higher than the lofty score it received last year. Moreover, it is a late-released wine, so hopefully, readers will be able to find a bottle or two. This dense ruby/purple-colored Cairanne (which includes a lot of Mourvedre intermixed with Grenache and Syrah) offers up big, sweet aromas of black raspberries, kirsch, pepper, roasted meats, and bouquet garni. Full-bodied and dense with exceptional purity and seemingly more texture, depth, and length than I remember from last year (and it was impressive then), this 2007 has developed into a big time sleeper of the vintage. It should drink well for 5-6 years. This is one of the most highly respected estates in the southern Rhone. Almost every insider speaks of l’Oratoire Saint-Martin, run by Frederic and Francois Alary, as an example of a perfectly managed, impeccably manicured vineyard as well as meticulous winemaking. Previously recommended in issue 181: 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Cairanne Reserve des Seigneurs (90), 2007 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Cairanne Cuvee Prestige (90) Importers: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800, and J & R Selections, Lansing, MI; tel. (517) 393-4441