Jean-Louis Chave, Mon Coeur, Côtes du Rhône, France, 2023

Overview of the Brand
Going back to 1481, when the first Jean-Louis Chave was gifted a vineyard in St Joseph by the nobleman Farconnet, 25 generations have farmed some of the best parcels in the Northern Rhône. Though now known as perhaps the best producer of Hermitage (and certainly among the best blenders in the world), the family only expanded to this famous hill during the mid-1800s wave of phylloxera that decimated Europe's vineyards. 

In the 1970s, when Gerard Chave took over from his father, the domaine rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines. Gerard's son Jean-Louis (25th of his name) now oversees the estate and has shown an ever expanding dedication to improving the already stunning quality of these rare wines. Jean-Louis Chave regularly dedicates the domaine to intense and exacting projects, the benefits of which will be seen by future generations. Indeed, the estate employs three full time stonemasons just to repair the traditional stone walls dotting the vineyards. 

Since the 1990s, Jean-Louis Chave has offered a second label known as 'J.L. Chave Sélection' that provides a glimpse of the reason for the estate's fame at a fraction of the price. Many of these wines are from declassified estate wine and long term farming contracts, and are vinified in the domaine's primary cellar in Mauves. 

Winemakers
Gérard and son Jean-Louis Chave

Origin
Rhône Valley, France

Grapes/Blend
60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
The 2023 Jean-Louis Chave Mon Cœur Côtes du Rhône is a refined red blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre from high-altitude vineyards in the Southern Rhône. The wine is fermented in stainless steel and aged in neutral oak barrels, maintaining its fresh fruit character and structure. It offers aromas of dark berries, black olive, and a hint of smoky minerality, with a medium-bodied palate, fine tannins, and a lingering finish. With an alcohol content of 15%, this wine embodies elegance and depth, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

90 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
Juicy red berries, herbes de Provence, pepper, and a hint of sandalwood lift from the 2023 Côtes Du Rhône Mon Coeur. Medium-bodied and nicely balanced, with savory tannins and tons of personality and charm, it's perfect for drinking over the coming 4-6 years. 

Product size: 750ml