Last year, the 2022 Kirkland CdPs didn't drop until May locally, so consider me surprised to have seen the 2023s out in late February this year! Enjoyed last year's vintage so much that I snapped up several bottles this time, and opened the first one tonight. The producer remains Guillaume Gonnet, the same winemaker who does Costco's other Southern Rhone blends – but they remain different from his own house blends. The grapes, however, remain the same as last year's vintage – 70% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, and 10% Cinsault. Stored at 55°, I poured a glass and enjoyed it over an hour while decanting another two servings for the evening. Paired with my girl's seared steak and salad.
Visually, a vibrant red color with a ruby hue. Bottle note – practically identical to last year's labeling, with different tasting notes.
On the nose, the first glass shows forest flowers and bountiful red & blue fruit – cherries and blueberries. As it warms and is exposed to more air, additional notes emerge – dried herbs at the rim, fresh seasonings, jammy scents. Deeper into the glass – roasted meats, cocoa, dark chocolate. Hello, Syrah!
On the palate, a bit less than full bodied – paired with smooth tannins, a punchy acidity, and unfortunately, very notable heat. At 15%, you feel this one going down every time! That one element is quite out of balance. Flavors of stewed plums, strawberry jam, and those same herbs – the finish is notably longer than the recent Vacqueyras and Gigondas were. The silky mouthfeel and zingy acidity have this ready to drink now.
This year, I'll be keeping one for at least 5 years to see how it ages – and at $19, it's even a dollar cheaper than last year's. The vintage was a great one for the region, so I'm truly curious to find out if that helps integrate the alcohol punch in a little better. I can think of few wines better at that sub-$20 price point, and it's definitely in my top 5 there. The nose is quite complex, and it definitely begs to accompany a meal – seasoned steak plus a Southern Rhone wine are definitely some of my favorite pairings. Can't get enough of GSMs. Recommended at the price point, fantastic QPR. Let me know if you can find them and of course, your thoughts!
by JJxiv15
3 Comments
Ooh, I’ll have to check out my local Costco!
Thank you! I can’t wait until our Costco gets this
Still have a couple of bottles from last year but will definitely be on the look out. Can’t wait for the Brunello