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The Cellier des Dauphins Côtes du Rhône Réserve (Cuvée Réservée) is a benchmark value red from the Union des Vignerons des Côtes du Rhône cooperative — one of the Rhône Valley's largest and most celebrated producers. Crafted from Grenache and Syrah, it consistently overdelivers for its accessible price point, offering a modern, polished take on classic southern Rhône style. The 2024 vintage produced approachable, elegant reds with more freshness than the riper 2023s, thanks to a cooler growing season.

Cellier des Dauphins (Union des Vignerons des Côtes du Rhône)

Founded in 1967, Cellier des Dauphins is produced by the Union des Vignerons des Côtes du Rhône, a cooperative uniting over 2,000 winegrower families across the southern Rhône Valley, making it the largest winemaker in the Rhône area with 18,000 hectares of vineyards.

Blend

60% Grenache, 40% Syrah (typical across vintages; exact 2024 split may vary slightly)

Tasting Profile

Black plums, Kirsch cherry, cranberry, and wild thyme on the nose; the palate is savory with ripe black fruit, upfront tannins, a touch of licorice and garrigue, and a long, velvety finish.

Region

Côtes du Rhône is France's second-largest AOC, covering more than 170 villages along 200 km of the Rhône Valley; Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre dominate red blends, with the Mediterranean-influenced south producing richer, fruit-forward styles.

Price Context

Typically retails around $13–$16 USD per bottle, representing outstanding value for the appellation.

Food Pairings

🥩 Grilled lamb or roast beef🦆 Duck confit🌿 Ratatouille or Provençal vegetable dishes🧀 Aged Comté or hard cheeses🌭 Charcuterie and cured meats

Critic Scores

93 James Suckling90 Wine Enthusiast