Winemaker Notes
Wild red berries and spice cascade in layers, revealing new subtleties with every sip. A soft and chewy texture is supported by the signature Jaboulet minerality.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Savory red and black fruits, ground pepper, garrigue, and some earthy minerality emerge from the 2017 Vacqueyras Les Cyprés. Based on 75% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and the rest Mourvèdre that was destemmed and brought up in French oak (all used, I believe), it’s medium to full-bodied, has building tannins, and notable purity. Give bottles 2-3 years and it should drink great for 7-8 years.
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Decanter
Attractive on the nose, showing hints of spice and floral touches – violets. Medium-bodied in a controlled style, not overly leathery considering the vintage. Juicy mass of ripe tannin. Not complex, but well balanced and structured for an inexpensive wine.
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.
This charming appellation within the Côtes du Rhône Villages was second only to Gigondas to earn its own village appellation status. Its wines may be red, rosé or white—though hardly any is white. Its high winemaking standards follow many of the same rules as Chateauneuf-du-Pape. But for Vacqueyras red wines, half of the grapes have to be Grenache and the remainder is usually a combination of Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault.
While they can be robust and rustic in style, typically a great Vacqueyras red combines delicate aromas with intense fruit and a bright, crisp texture. They certainly don’t lack any character and show an abundance of black cherry, wild berry, plum, fig, baking spice, and a touch of game or smoke.