Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Decanter
10% Cinsault adds sprightliness and perfume to the red berry Grenache and Syrah aromas. Medium-bodied, fresh and lively, not overly fat or full, with a tightly laced tannic frame. Ends bright and saline; a drinkable and vivid style. Biodynamic.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Almost as good as the flagship bottling, the 2016 Vinsobres offers oodles of ripe cherries and stone fruit on the nose. It's not quite as complex, but this more fruit-forward wine delivers ample weight on the palate, plenty of concentration, supple tannins and a long finish.
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.
One of the more established Rhône villages promoted to its own 'Côtes du Rhône Villages' appellation, Vinsobres produces uniquely styled Rhône Blends based on Grenache and Syrah in its relatively cool and elevated vineyards.