One of the world’s best value reds is back in stock! From the rugged terrain of the Côtes du Roussillon in the South of France, Chapoutier’s delicious Bila-Haut Rouge 2023 is produced from high-altitude, 40+ year-old vineyards in the Agly Valley. And at R200, it offers outrageous bang for your buck.
This Syrah-led blend shows black cherries, figs and a dark core with plenty of spice and violets. The inky colour fades to a lighter purple at the edges, and the palate is focused, concentrated and muscular with notes of garrigue, smoke and a salty, mineral finish.
Chapoutier acquired the Bila-Haut domaine in 1999. The site was one of the first areas planted for viticulture by the Greek Mariners and has been known for centuries as a top wine-growing region. The grapes for the Bila-Haut Rouge 2023 are all hand harvested, fully destemmed and kept on the skins for fermentation and maceration for 2-4 weeks.
‘Michel Chapoutier’s Roussillon outpost continues to turn out multiple cuvées of very good to excellent quality,’ says Joe Czerwinski of the Wine Advocate. This is another wine to buy by the caseload for your Heritage Day braai.
Tasting Notes:
Chapoutier Bila-Haut Rouge 2023
This vintage has not been rated yet; see the 2022 tasting note below: ‘The 2022 Côtes du Roussillon Villages Bila Haut has some classic Roussillon notes of darker berries, peppery herbs, spice, and loamy earth. With medium-bodied richness and a supple, elegant, layered mouthfeel, it will compete with wines two to three times its price.’ – Jeb Dunnuck, 91/100
