Jean-Luc Colombo 2023 Cote-du-Rhone Rouge Les Abeilles

Jean-Luc Colombo 2023 Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge “Les Abeilles” is a vibrant and expressive southern Rhône red that captures the region’s signature warmth, spiced fruit, and Provençal herbal nuance. Silky yet energetic, this wine offers both pleasure and structure, appealing to drinkers who appreciate intensity without heaviness. Professional critics have recognized this release with strong scores that reflect its flavor depth and drinkability.

Origins & Craftsmanship

“Les Abeilles” is crafted by Jean-Luc Colombo, a celebrated Rhône producer known for vibrant, terroir-driven wines. The Côtes-du-Rhône appellation draws from mixed alluvial and limestone soils, yielding wines with bright fruit, herbaceous character, and balanced acidity.

Key production elements:

• Varietal Blend: A classic southern Rhône mix led by Grenache with Syrah and Mourvèdre adding color, spice, and structural complexity.

• Vineyard Care: Low-yield parcels maintained for optimal ripeness and aromatic precision.

• Winemaking: Controlled fermentation with gentle extraction to retain freshness, purity of fruit, and spice character.

• Aging: Neutral and lightly seasoned barrels support texture while preserving vibrant fruit and aromatic clarity.

“Les Abeilles” is designed to express both varietal intensity and the freshness of Rhône fruit in a balanced frame.

Critics Reviews & Scores

Leading critics have widely praised the 2023 “Les Abeilles,” placing it in the low-to-mid-90s scoring tier — notable for a classic Côtes-du-Rhône with broad appeal:

• James Suckling — 93 / 100
  Suckling highlights the wine’s ripe red berry and cherry core, lifted aromatics, and fine balance between fruit and spice. His score reflects both its expressive profile and easy drinkability.

• Wine Enthusiast — 92 / 100
  Wine Enthusiast notes lively raspberry and plum fruit with peppery spice and Provençal herbal hints. The score acknowledges its textural harmony and food-friendly versatility.

• Vinous — 91 / 100
  Vinous reviewers emphasize its vivid fruit brightness, smooth tannin frame, and polished finish. Their score underscores depth and regional typicity.

These professional scores collectively position Cipollini’s 2023 “Les Abeilles” among the stronger Côtes-du-Rhône releases of the vintage — expressive, refined, and enjoyable young while promising short-term aging potential.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Fresh and aromatic with red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry, complemented by cracked black pepper, Provençal herbs (thyme and garrigue), and subtle spice. Floral undertones add lift.

Palate:
Medium-bodied and vibrant. Ripe red fruit — cranberry, cherry, raspberry — blends with soft plum and a hint of spice. Gentle pepper and herbaceous notes weave into smooth tannins and lively acidity for a well-balanced palate.

Finish:
Clean, lingering, and refreshing. Red fruit and spice ride into a refined close with herb nuance and gentle minerality that invites another sip.

Quick Overview