Domaine les Aphillanthes has been producing wines for four generations and their Rasteau holding was planted in 1921. As far as Villages in the Cotes du Rhone AOC go, Rasteau is regarded as one of the best.
Philippe Cambie, the most sought after oenologist in Southern Rhone, possibly most known for his work in helping Clos Saint Jean to cult status with fashioning 100 point Ex Machina and Combe des Fous, was recently brought on for consultation.
Factor this all together and their 2009 CdRV Rasteau basically delivers the equivalent of a 93pt Chateauneuf du Pape for as little as $26.99, or as Robert Parker exclaimed "Bravo!"
When I recently popped a bottle, it revealed aromas of dark berries, licorice, tapenade and asphalt. When tasted, the wine came across the palate in waves, first with black cherries, followed by baking spices, tea and dried mushrooms. It then finished with notes of mocha and cocoa powder in dusty tannins.
I was so impressed by this wine that I scooped up a stash to follow over the next decade. At this price, you should too!