E.Guigal Cotes du Rhone

Etienne Guigal (aka E.Guigal) was the man who started what has now become one of the world’s most lover Rhone Valley producers. E.Guigal Cotes du Rhone

Arriving into the region as a spotty faced 14 year old kid, Etienne working for the Vidal Fleury winery for 15 years before setting up his own gig. Etienne went on to do 67 harvests in the region and in later years his son, Marcel, actually bought his old man’s former employer (Vidal Fleury) in 1984.

It was in the 80s that E.Guigal started to make a name for itself when the world’s most influential wine scribbler Robert Parker raved about Guigal wines. “In the past 26 years I have spent visiting wineries and vignerons, I have never seen a producer so fanatical about quality as Marcel Guigal.”

This 2023 release of E.Guigal Cotes du Rhone is a blend of Syrah (50%), Grenache (40%) and Mourvèdre (10%) and aged 18 months in oak before release. A medium to full bodied red that’s spicy and peppery and simply bursting with dark, red and black fruit flavours.

It’s had a swag of thumbs-up reviews from critics here and overseas…

5 Stars, 93/100 (Sam Kim)
“This is consistently excellent, offering rich, dark-fruit intensity, warm spice, smoked-meat, and potpourri aromas, followed by a flavoursome palate displaying succulent fruit and polished tannins. Wonderfully balanced and generous with a persistent, structured finish.”

92/100 (Cam Douglas MS)
“An excellent expression that speaks to the style, region and red blend classics from the southern Rhone. Aromas and flavours of plums and blackcurrants, raspberry and dried herbs, sage and thyme, medium+ tannins and acidity frame a textured palate with a decent line of fruit and lots of style. Well made with good length and finish. Best drinking from day of purchase through 2029.”

90/100 (RobertParker.com)
“The 2023 Côtes du Rhône opens with gourmand aromas of dark fruits, dark cherries and flowers. Medium-bodied, juicy and supple, it’s immediately appealing and easy to enjoy. It’s a perfect introduction to the wines of the Rhône Valley.”

E.Guigal Cotes du Rhone an absolute signature style Rhoney Valley red from a world famous producer – a must try if you’re new to the Rhone Valley scene. Under cork closure it’s got solid cellaring potential of 7-8 years and makes a great partner to a wide range of meats and cheeses.