Winemaker Notes
Expressive nose with floral nuances of peony and notes of cherries and strawberries. On the palate, the unfolding is fresh and the relief grainy, it is the perfect union of Syrah and Grenache. The finish is long on menthol notes.
The balance of this vintage will reveal the flavors of a leg of milk-fed lamb, duck skewers or a cheese slate.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Captivating from the first sniff, the nose is high toned with wild strawberry, raspberry, and kirsch, all about pure, vibrant fruit. Silky and finely textured, integrated tannins bring a terroir-driven edge, layering elegant red and plummy fruits with a powdery gravel note that lingers through the finish.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
The 2022 Domaine de l’Amandine Côtes du Rhône Villages The 2022 Domaine de l’Amandine Côtes du Rhône Villages shows a deep ruby hue and enticing aromas of tart red berries, fragrant spices, and a touch of earth. On the palate, it delivers a smooth, well-layered texture with balanced fruit and spice elements, finishing with supple tannins. A fine choice to pair with a lightly spiced beef stew or slow-braised short ribs. (Tasted: October 10, 2025, San Francisco, CA)
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.
An appellation full of some of the most delightful and particularly charming reds, Côtes du Rhône Villages includes the best villages of the greater Côtes du Rhône appellation. The possibility for an appellation promotion exists for every named village but each has to achieve and prove superior quality before an upgrade will be granted. The main ones today are Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Beaumes-de-Venise, Vinsobres, Rasteau and Cairanne.
The Gigondas appellation, while sometimes producing wines with a touch of rusticity, can often rival Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Its elevations are higher and soils richer in limestone. Vacqueyras reds are more concentrated than the more general Côtes du Rhône reds and must be at least one half comprised of Grenache by law. Beaumes de Venise also includes some excellent higher elevation spots for making snappy, fruity and spicy reds but historically the appellation’s esteem came from its fragrant, sweet and golden Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise.