Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Black raspberries, darker cherries, flowers, and violet notes, as well as some classic Rasteau scorched earth, all emerge from the 2022 Rasteau, a pure, medium to full-bodied, seamless Rasteau with fine tannins and a great finish.
Barrel Sample: 91-93 -
James Suckling
Full-bodied and creamy, this wine shows aromas of dark berries, baked plums and prunes. Linear and generously fruity with sweet spices in the background and a plush finish. From organically grown grapes.
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.
A highly successful southern Rhone village promoted to Cotes du Rhone Villages status because of its intense and heady red wines, Rasteau is also recognized for its fortified wine, Vin Doux Naturel. Grenache is responsible for both styles. Rasteau also produces refreshing white and rosé table wines.