Winemaker Notes
Produced from vines planted in 1921 that yield little, but incredibly concentrated, fruit. Exquisite bouquet of blue and black fruits, licorice, lavender, and violets. Medium- to full-bodied on the palate and impeccably balanced. Powerfully rich, elegant, and pure, this is a beautiful Rasteau.
Blend: 92% Grenache, 7% Mourvèdre, 1% Carignan
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2019 Rasteau Cuvée 1921 comes from ancient vines (planted in 1921) and is 92% Grenache, 7% Mourvedre, and 1% Carignan, which I believe was raised in tank. It takes plenty of air to open up and offers a striking Provençal bouquet of sweet black cherries, flowery incense, peppery garrigue, lavender, and saddle leather. It actually reminds me of walking through a street market in Vaison-La-Romaine in the south of France with its complex, incredibly satisfying Provençal aromatics. These characteristics all carry over to the palate, where the wine is medium to full-bodied, has a round, layered mouthfeel, ripe yet present tannins, and a great finish. It doesn't have the sheer elegance of, say, the 2016 or 2010, but it's a beauty. Give it a decant if drinking any time soon. It should put a smile on your face any time over the coming decade or more. Best After 2023
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.