Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2013 Cotes du Roussillon Les Aspres Grand Terroir, which is made from Grenache, Carignan and Syrah that was completely destemmed and aged in 50% new oak. It’s a ripe, chocolate-laced effort that gives up lots of smoke, licorice, graphite and black fruits in its full-bodied, beautifully textured personality. It’s a modern-styled effort that won’t appease traditionalist, yet it’s an impressive wine that will have 4-6 years of longevity. Range: 90-92
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.
The Côtes du Roussillon-Les Aspres appellation, granted in 2004, covers the transitional area between the lower Pyrénées and the coastal Roussillon plain. While it is south of the Têt River, the region became part of the Villages encasement in 2017. Only red wines can claim the Côtes du Roussillon-Les Aspres appellation name; these are generally blends of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and sometimes Carignan. (No Cinsault or Lledoner Pelut are allowed.)