Prestige Cotes Du Rhone Red

Prestige's Côtes du Rhône Red comes from the Rhône Valley and carries a stated 13.5% ABV. Red Côtes du Rhône is usually built on Grenache, often with Syrah and Mourvèdre alongside it, so expect a medium-bodied, fruit-forward red rather than a heavy one. The typical profile is ripe red cherry and raspberry, a little dark plum, and the warm, peppery, dried-herb character the southern Rhône is known for. Tannins in this appellation tend to be soft and rounded, acidity moderate, and oak influence light to absent, which keeps the fruit in front. The finish is usually medium in length and dry, with a faint earthy or spicy edge. That profile suits a wide range of food. Roast chicken, herb-crusted lamb, grilled sausages, and pork with mustard or thyme all sit comfortably beside it. Ratatouille, mushroom dishes, and tomato-based pasta bring out its savoury side. Hard cheeses such as Comté or aged Gouda work well too. The tannins are gentle enough that it will not clash with lighter dishes, and it has enough fruit to stand up to a mildly spiced stew. Serve it slightly cooler than room temperature, around 15 to 17°C (59 to 63°F). About 20 minutes in the refrigerator before opening usually gets a bottle there and keeps the alcohol from feeling warm. Decanting is not necessary for a wine of this style, though pouring it into a decanter or simply letting it breathe in the glass for 15 to 20 minutes can loosen the aromas. A standard red wine glass with a moderately wide bowl is all it needs. Wines in this category are generally made to be enjoyed within a few years of the vintage rather than cellared, so treat this as a drink-now bottle for the table rather than one to lay down.