Vigneron Julien Coipel has always been an incredible host. Valréas sits a little off the beaten path, in the northern reaches of the Southern Rhône. It takes some effort to get there—winding roads and quiet countryside—so I usually save the visit for a Sunday, when Julien is available and generous enough to carve out time on his weekend. More often than not, the day ends with a long country lunch. On my last visit, his wife showed me her pottery studio, where I attempted to make my very first “vase.” At least, that’s what I was going for… We tasted the newly bottled 2022s, and as always, Passion stood out immediately. It’s remarkable how much quality lives inside this bottle at such a humble price point. The vineyards sit at higher elevation, gently sloping hillsides that capture the softer morning sun. The wine opens with bright red raspberry fruit, layered with savory notes of tobacco and a subtle hint of sandalwood. There is plenty of fruit on the palate, but the tannins are polished and the finish impressively long and refined. Only neutral vessels are used, keeping the expression pure and transparent. These are some of the most honest, authentic daily drinkers on the shelf—wines that feel as genuine and quietly thoughtful as Julien and his family themselves.