Veteran northwest wine writer Chuck Hill has high praise for Belleruche Rouge

Here’s what veteran northwest wine writer Chuck Hill had to say about Belleruche Rouge, one of his “wines of the week” for July 20, 2013:

The “Belleruche” wines from Michel Chapoutier are aimed at creating a serious, high-quality wine that remains a good value. This Belleruche Rouge from the Côtes-du-Rhône fills the bill in all categories and was topped ranked by tasters for its balance, varietal presentation and old-world character. On both the nose and palate, the play of the Grenache (60%) versus the Syrah (40%) is a delight. The fresh cherry notes of the Grenache and the darker cassis notes of the Syrah marry perfectly with highlights of peppery spice and mellow, lingering tannins.