Arnoux et Fils Vacqueyras Seigneur de Lauris 2012
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Robert
Parker
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
More rich and substantial, the 2012 Vacqueyras Seigneur de Lauris is comprised of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah, from vines over 50 years in age, which will spend 18 to 24 months in foudre (small part in 2-year-old barrels.) Rock-solid with its sweet cassis, raspberry, licorice and spice-box aromas and flavors, it flows onto the palate with medium-bodied richness, excellent mid-palate depth and outstanding length. It should drink nicely on release and evolve gracefully for 8-10 years.
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.