It was quite the surprise running into this bottle, part of a small display tucked into the "cheap seats" (wines stacked in the aisles, not the wooden boxes).
I first tried this wine just a a few months ago when it popped up at Cost Plus World Market for a heavy discount (can't remember what I paid but less than $20 for sure). I really enjoyed it.
Costco's price of $15.69 is fantastic especially when compared online. And the wine itself is just delicious, as good the second time around as it was the first. A little big and hefty perhaps for some drinkers during the hot months, but if you like big bold reds, regardless of your surrounding temperature, than this wine is for you.
It pours about as dark inky purple as it gets; aromatic nose of spice and blueberry, a little earth. In the mouth, loads of pepper and spice, dark chocolate all around, red and dark fruit, mocha, a touch of vanilla. The finish is gigantic and lasting.
The blend is rather unique and towards the Rhone side of things: 60% Syrah, 22% Petite Sirah, 14% Grenache and 4% Viognier.
Best served a little below room temp and after a little airtime. This wine is a great change of pace, maybe a little big for this time of the year, but we had it outside on a fairly warm night with a chocolate dessert that matched pretty good. I'd love to try it again with some smoked ribs or grilled red meat.
Wine Advocate and Wine Enthusiast both went 91 points on this wine, which is super impressive. I'm right there with them, and am going to add this bottle to our Recommended Wine List.
CostcoWineBlog.com Rating: 91 points (a CostcoWineBlog Recommended Wine)
Costco item number: 1204808
Purchased at Costco in: Atlanta, GA
Alc. 15.2%
Annie says
I couldn’t find the Christo but I found Lafage Nicolas 2015100% Grenache for $12.99. I like it better the second day than the first!