Last minute decisions are tough, but we’re adding one more to our Holiday Wine Guide for 2016.  Hailing from Roussillon, France,  Bila-Haut Côtes Du Roussillon Villages is another fantastic wine from Michel Chapoutier.  The blend of Carignan, Grenache, and Syrah is steeped in the sun-drenched south of France and should carry great acidity and tannic structure perfect for a Christmas dinner.

Sight:  Deep, dark purple with a firm, hot magenta edge.

Smell:  Blueberries, black cherries, boysenberries, and blackberries all get a quick start, followed by some herbal notes of rosemary and thyme. A hint of smoke and dark chocolate are present but relatively subdued.

Sip:  The body is moderate, but very fleshy and smoothly textured.  The bright pops of black cherry are complemented by boysenberry, raspberry, and red plum.  A licorice-earth note layers into the background, and adds a slightly spiced (like cumin) note into the background, along with more herbal tendencies.

Savor:  The ending is tannic but relatively refined, and the dark fruit carries over.  The notes of spices and herbs play through after the fruit, and things linger with a slightly concentrated nature for a while.

Bila-Haut Côtes Du Roussillon Villages is a complex mix of fruit and spice.  The fleshy texture makes this wine feel incredibly structured, and the layers of flavor help build it’s deep character.  Everything works, and the transitions are relatively smooth from flavor profile to profile, but not consistently so.  Even with some surprise flavors, Bila-Haut Côtes Du Roussillon Villages is well crafted, and a delicious treat.

Verdict: Blackberries, Cherries, Garigue, Spice
Rating: 89
Price: $13
Roussillon, France
Blend: Carignan, Grenache, Syrah

Available At: