93 points Rhone Report: "A rich, substantial, and serious red, the 2009 Michel Gassier Costières-de-Nîmes Lou Coucardie is a blend of 60% Mourvèdre, 30% Grenache, and 10% Syrah that was aged for close to 18 months, on lees, in French oak barrels. The wine exhibits a deep, inky color as well as brilliant, rich aromatics of crème de cassis, spice, graphite, chocolate, and earth. While decidedly rich and leaning into the decadent realm, this stays beautifully fresh and focused. Full-bodied on the palate and structured, with layers of fruit and texture, impressive balance, and a classic, clean finish, this superb wine can be enjoyed now, but should evolve positively for 2-4 years, and have 10-12 years or more of prime drinking. (Sep 2011)"

90-93 points Robert Parker: "The outrageously complex, dense purple-hued 2009 Costieres de Nimes Lou Coucardie is fashioned from a blend of 60% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache and 10% Syrah aged in French oak on its lees for at least 12 months. The most limited offering, its blue/purple color is followed by aromas of toast, white chocolate, bay leaf, black currants, blackberries and a hint of coffee. This full-bodied, deep wine admirably demonstrates the potential of Mourvedre in the Costieres de Nimes. It should drink well for a decade or more. (Oct 2010)"

91 points Wine Enthusiast: "The blend of old-vine Mourvèdre, Grenache and Syrah features slightly lifted aromas of oak spice, vanilla and dark fruit. The midpalate is creamy and lush, full of dark cherries and chocolate, whose flavors linger enticingly on the finish. Drink now-2016. Alcohol 15.0%. 250 cases produced. (12/15/11)"

90 points Wine Spectator: "Supple and enticing, this red shows a light mulled edge to the plum and raspberry fruit, with notes of melted red licorice and a hint of pepper gliding through the finish. This has weight and flesh, but stays restrained overall. Drink now through 2013. (8/31/12)"