2021 Domaine Jaume Courtois La Source Cotes du Rhone

Think of this as the gateway to everything great about the Southern Rhône — at a price that makes it your new house red.

The Jaume family has been making wine in Vinsobres for five generations, farming over 200 acres of vineyard in one of the Rhône Valley's most compelling terroirs. Vinsobres sits roughly 40 miles north of Chateauneuf-du-Pape in the direction of the Alps — close enough to share the richness and garrigue character of the south, but cooled by Alpine breezes that keep the wines fresh and lively. The appellation earned its own Cru status in 2006, and the Jaume family were among the key champions of that recognition.

The Courtois "La Source" is the family's entry-level expression, but entry-level in name only. Grown on chalk and clay soils, hand-harvested, and vinified to showcase pure, vivid fruit — this is the Southern Rhône made approachable without sacrificing complexity. It drinks like wines that cost twice the price, which is exactly why Wine Enthusiast called it a Best Buy at 92 points.