Winemaker Notes
Deep, intense hue. Aromas of fresh black fruit a little meaty, with dried herbs smells. On the palate, the richness of the tannins harmonizes with the smoothness of the wine. The finish is long, with spices aromas, licorice. A typical wine from this specific terroir called “Les Garrigues."
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The Jaume brothers have produced a classic 2016 Vacqueyras Grande Garrigue based on 60% Grenache and the rest Mourvèdre, Syrah, and very old vine Cinsault. Dark fruits, garrigue, crushed rock-like minerality, and ample spice notes give way to an ultra-classic, balanced 2016 that has a great mid-palate and sweet tannin. Drink this layered, pleasure-bent effort over the coming 7-8 years.
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Wine Enthusiast
Black-plum and mulberry flavors are juicy and plush but not dense or heavy in this elegantly balanced wine. It's rich, ripe and full in body, accented by a crush of granite and notes of rosemary and sage. The finish extends on fine-grained, persistent tannins.
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.