Eric Texier Brézème Côtes du Rhône
Eric Texier · Côtes du Rhône AOC, Rhône, France
At a glance
- Producer
- Eric Texier
- Region
- Côtes du Rhône AOC, Rhône, France
- Grape variety
- Syrah (100%)
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $30-$45
Tasting profile
Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, with hints of lavender and garrigue herbs; palate shows spice, mineral notes, and firm yet supple tannins.
Evolution: Over the next 5-10 years, secondary notes of leather, forest floor, and smoky nuances will develop while fruit softens.
At peak: Peak drinking will showcase complex layering of dark fruit, floral lavender essence, integrated oak, with sustained acidity and refined tannins.
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-high, fresh and vibrant
- Tannins
- Medium-high, polished
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Aging potential
- 15+ years from vintage due to high-quality Syrah and organic vineyard management
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2025 to 2037
- Optimal window
- 2022 to 2040
- Current status
- Approaching optimal drinking period
- Current condition
- The wine is showing ripe fruit characteristics with balanced acidity and integrated tannins; cellaring will enhance complexity.
The 2018 vintage combined favorable heat units with balanced rainfall; organic farming practices enhanced vine health, producing a Syrah with ripe phenolics and natural acidity to support 15+ years of evolution.
Food pairing
Pairs excellently with grilled lamb, rosemary-roasted game birds, wild mushroom dishes, and aged hard cheeses like Comté or Manchego.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (45-60 minutes) — Allows tannins to soften and aromatics to open fully, revealing the wine's complexity.
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 9/10
Use of organic farming to minimize synthetic inputs; biodynamic techniques applied in parts of the estate; energy efficient winery processes including solar panels and water recycling; natural yeast fermentations; minimal intervention philosophy.
Eric Texier’s certified organic status since 2008 underscores long-term commitment to sustainability. Vineyard practices promote biodiversity, soil health, and reduced chemical use. The winery’s adoption of solar energy and water conservation techniques further lowers environmental impact. Though export logistics introduce carbon costs, the producer offsets with eco-responsible packaging and vineyard stewardship.