2003 Perrin & Fils "Réserve". Côtes du Rhône AOC, Southern Rhône Valley, France. 13% alcohol. $8.
Great color with thick slightly hued legs. Quite strong and forward aromas of black pepper, heat, bubblegum, and slightly candied plum with just traces of anise and spice. A little thin but what fruit is there is fairly enjoyable. Light tannin and sufficient acidity. A decent quaffer but there are numerous other more attractive Côtes du Rhône in this vintage. A blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, and 10% Cinsault from the Perrins, owners of Château de Beaucastel. Drink now to 2007. 81 points.