M Chapoutier La Croix des Grives 2016

Rich, ripe and complex, this benchmark Côtes du Rhône is from the cellars of the Chapoutier family, Chapoutier being one of the most highly regarded names in the French wine world. Since founding the business in 1808 the family have established vineyards throughout the Rhône Valley and in Provence, and South Australia too. Michel Chapoutier has now introduced organic viticulture into the vineyards. Alongside this progressive approach – they were one of the first in the Rhône to go organic – Michel still uses traditional techniques in the cellar to produce wines that reflect each terroir and each vintage. This is a velvety red from a superb vintage, with intense forest fruits. It’s ideal served with lamb, duck, cassoulet or vegetable kebabs.