Viniou Reviews
Cuvée Saint-Esprit 2021 from Delas is a classic example of a Côtes-du-Rhône red, hailing from the heart of the Rhône Valley in France. This cuvée is traditionally composed of a blend dominated by Grenache and Syrah, often supplemented with Mourvèdre and Carignan, resulting in a wine that is aromatic, generous, and versatile. The 2021 vintage experienced a cooler growing season, which has contributed to a wine with lively freshness, bright red and black fruit, and a subtle spiciness characteristic of the region. The Saint-Esprit is typically vinified in stainless steel to preserve the purity of fruit, with gentle extraction to maintain supple tannins and balance.
The Rhône Valley is renowned for its exceptional viticultural heritage, featuring a mosaic of soils ranging from pebbly galets roulés to clay-limestone and sandy terraces. The Côtes-du-Rhône appellation straddles both sides of the river, taking advantage of the region’s Mediterranean climate marked by warm, dry summers and the cooling influence of the Mistral wind. The area’s diverse terroir imparts authenticity and a sense of place to its wines. Historically, the Rhône has served as a crossroads for culture and wine trade since Roman times, with producers like Delas upholding centuries-old traditions while continually refining their craft.
With its medium body and expressive profile, this wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a regional touch, try it with grilled lamb chops infused with herbes de Provence, a classic ratatouille, or duck breast with a berry sauce. The vibrant fruit and gentle structure also make it a fine companion for charcuterie, vegetable tian, or roasted game. For a broader pairing, mushroom risotto or barbecued meats will complement the subtle spice and fruit present in the glass.
To fully appreciate the structure and aromatics of this Côtes-du-Rhône, serve it slightly cool, between 15-17°C. Open the bottle 30 minutes before serving to allow the wine to breathe and reveal its layers of complexity, ensuring a pleasurable and expressive tasting experience.
