Cotes du Rhone 2023 Domaine de la Charbonniere, Rhone Valley

A wonderful Domaine in Southern Rhone, Domaine de la Charbonniere is situated in Chateauneuf-du-pape where they farm mostly Chateauneuf, Vacqueyras and this wine, Cotes du Rhone, in lesser quantities - a real pity as it's a lovely wine and we never get enough!

A blend of Grenache and Syrah, it's medium to full-bodied, with a lush, creamy texture, cherry and red fruit flavours (and a touch of strawberries?). It is mouth filling and rewarding and finishes long with soft spicy tannins. It's more like a baby Chateauneuf than an ordinary Cotes du Rhone.
This is streets ahead of any entry level Chateauneuf-du-pape!

The fourth Generation of the Maret family in the sisters Veronique & Caroline are now in charge. Caroline is on the admin side with Veronique in full charge of vineyards and vinification (their website pointedly says that Veronique is in charge, even if their Dad Michel is hanging around!).

Best known for Chateauneuf-du-pape, this Rhone is not dissimilar in style. The pity is that they only have 2 hectares of Cotes du Rhone vines!
Certified fully Organic since 2015.

The Wine critics all agree on Domaine de la Charbonniere:

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate 'one of my favourite estates in Southern Rhone ... run with great passion and enthusiasm'

Wine Spectator 'prices more than fair for the quality ... '
2023 Vintage - 90 points
An expressive burst of kirsch, plum and apple wood smoke is offset by a bitter mineral stream edged in charred mesquite. Balances ripeness and energy well, with real depth on the round, gutsy palate. 

You can read more at https://www.domainedelacharbonniere.com/

Alc. Vol. 15%
Last Tasted: January 2026