2006 Vrac Cote Du Rhone

VRAC: Can't judge a wine by the cover!

We've all heard the saying, "you can't judge a book by the cover", and the same holds true in the wine world.

Around this time last year, we introduced a red and a white French wine, both priced under $10, that we bought not because we loved the name or the packaging, but because the quality of the wine was exceptional for the price.' The name of that wine was VRAC, a French term for "bulk". Shortly thereafter, we read a response from a blogger who was taken aback by the concept.

"Why would you name a wine VRAC?" he asked? The producer of the wine responded. "What we tried to do with this product is come as close as possible to supplying that 'simple' everyday wine for one's table." We chose not to focus on designated wines, but instead on serious appellations... providing a very good (and drinkable) example of a Cotes du Rhone or Macon Villages. These wines come from a variety of sources, all of which are small. We barrel select and blend each year to offer one of the best examples of these two wines for the money... I'm interested in why you did not write what you thought of the wine, did you taste it?

We did! ... and "bulk" or no bulk, we agree that you've got to judge for yourself.

In the French tradition of everyday table wine, VRAC hits the mark!

Reviews

Solid core of fruit, a nice tannic structure with a hint of finesse on the lingering finish. Loaded with cherries, black fruit, mineral and dried herb character. Drink now. In screwcap.

-- Jon Visser, French Wine Buyer, Gary's Wine and Marketplace: 4 stars