Winemaker Notes
Montirius Vacqueyras Garrigues is a deep red wine. On the nose an explosion of red fruits. In the mouth, a lovely tannic structure, aromas of the 'Garrigues' or plains, and underwood.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Tasted from tank last summer, the 2022 Vacqueyras Garrigues looked pretty darn special. Crushed stone accents strawberry and raspberry fruit on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is richly concentrated, framed and focused by fine-grained tannins that leave a silky impression on the long finish.
Barrel Sample: 92-94 -
Jeb Dunnuck
A blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah, the 2022 Vacqueyras Garrigues is young and unevolved, with a promising style in its ripe red and black fruits as well as Provençal garrigue and peppery notes. Give this medium-bodied, pure, nicely balanced 2022 a year or three and enjoy through 2032.
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.