Winemaker Notes
Grown differently from rosé wine, the Château Romassan vines dedicated to reds are mainly planted with Mourvèdre, a grape variety characterized by its solidity, structure and great capacity for ageing. The main component in this blend, Mourvèdre is combined with the full-bodied texture of Grenache.
Its dense color can show tints of purple, garnet or ruby. Powerful, delicious and elegant, its red berry bouquet reveals aromas of cherry, blackcurrant and peppery spices in the mouth. They reappear on the palate after the very appealing initial attack. This balanced softness and unctuousness leads up to a silky 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.
Provence’s leader in concentrated and age-worthy red wines, Bandol is home to the dense, deep and earthy Mourvèdre grape. Like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Bandol produces characterful reds that, while approachable in their youth, are typically designed for the cellar.
Given its coastal, Provencal situation, Bandol also naturally produces an assortment of charming, aromatic rosés made of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault.