Winemaker Notes
Deep, intense hue. Aromas of fresh black fruit (a little meaty) with dried herbs. On the palate, the richness of the tannins harmonizes with the smoothness of the wine. The finish is long, with spicy aromas and licorice. A typical wine from this specific terroir called "Les Garrigues."
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
While never as big or concentrated as the Mazane, I still tend to prefer this cuvée from Alaine Jaume due to its complexity and just sheer charm. Spicy red and black fruits, Provençal garrigue, and tons of spice all shine from the 2023 Vacqueyras Grande Garrigue, and it's medium-bodied, has a seamless, elegant mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It was aged primarily in tanks with a small portion in barrel. This complex, incredibly Provençal beauty will drink well over the coming 8-10 years. Drink 2026-2035.
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James Suckling
A dense, fleshy and generous Vacqueyras showing aromas of blackberries, dark cherries, thyme and warm spices. Full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. It’s plush and full of energy, with structure and a vivid stream of berries and peppercorns in the persistent finish. From organically grown grapes. Try from 2027.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
This charming appellation within the Côtes du Rhône Villages was second only to Gigondas to earn its own village appellation status. Its wines may be red, rosé or white—though hardly any is white. Its high winemaking standards follow many of the same rules as Chateauneuf-du-Pape. But for Vacqueyras red wines, half of the grapes have to be Grenache and the remainder is usually a combination of Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault.
While they can be robust and rustic in style, typically a great Vacqueyras red combines delicate aromas with intense fruit and a bright, crisp texture. They certainly don’t lack any character and show an abundance of black cherry, wild berry, plum, fig, baking spice, and a touch of game or smoke.