Coudoulet de Beaucastel Rouge 2021

Often called “Baby Beaucastel,” the Coudoulet de Beaucastel is anything but a second-tier wine. While its fruit comes from a 30-hectare vineyard just east of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape boundary, it shares the same stony galets roulés (rolled pebbles) and the meticulous winemaking pedigree of its more famous sibling.

In the glass, the 2021 vintage is a deep, vibrant ruby. The nose is incredibly expressive, offering a bouquet of crushed black cherries, wild raspberries, and sun-baked stones, accented by hints of licorice and a touch of dark chocolate. On the palate, it’s medium-to-full-bodied with a supple, velvety texture. The Mourvèdre and Syrah in the blend provide a savory backbone of pepper and garrigue, while the Grenache keeps things bright and approachable.

This is a structured, soulful red that punches well above its weight class. It’s exactly the kind of wine we love to have on the table—serious enough for a slow-roasted leg of lamb with rosemary, but vibrant enough to enjoy on a Tuesday night.