December's Wine of the Month - Morgan 2021 Cotes du Crow's, Monterey

“Cotes de Crows” is a tongue-in-cheek reference to Crozes-Hermitage, the winemaking hub in the northern Rhone Valley of France.  Unlike the real Crozes which is home to Syrah, Morgan’s excellent, juicy red wine is a southern-Rhone inspired blend, of which Syrah is a component along with Grenache and a kiss of Mourvedre and Tempranillo.

Morgan Winery and Vineyards, a family owned winery in Carmel Valley was founded in 1982, which long ago established its reputation for its appealing Burgundy varieties, but few know it has also excelled with superb Syrahs in the past. And this highly popular, engaging red blend of Rhone varieties has emerged as a fan favorite over the years. 

As the winery states, it is "one of those wines that you smell, and it just brings a smile to your face."  In fact, the aroma is so enticing, it alone catapulted this wine into Wine-of-the-Month consideration.

The inviting, juicy flavors of the ruby-purple wine were so instantly appealing we thought it well deserving of a spotlight for December.  Medium-bodied, very drinkable now, soft in texture and nearly gulpable, we imagine this appearing on a lot of holiday tables and beyond.  The winery suggests it makes a perfect pairing for anything off the grill, which you will notice right away if you do it.  But don’t let that stop you from enjoying it with cheeses, or roasts out of the oven.  We think enjoying this friendly red with a sandwich is a great idea, too.