Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The top cuvee, which comes from the estate’s oldest vines, is the 2011 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau La Fontaine, which is mostly old vine Grenache blended with a small amount of Mourvedre. The latter component is aged in 600-liter demi-muids and the Grenache spends time in tank. Its dense purple color is followed by copious notes of melted chocolate, kirsch, bouquet garni and a hint of smoked game. This "locked and loaded," full-bodied, rich, dense Rasteau is remarkably concentrated for a 2011. It should drink well for a decade.
Barrel Sample: 92-94 Points
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.
Typically thought of as a baby Chateâuneuf-du-Pape, the term Côtes du Rhône actually doesn’t merely apply to the flatter outskirts of the major southern Rhône appellations, it also includes the fringes of well-respected northern Rhône appellations. White wines can be produced under the appellation name, but very little is actually made.
The region offers some of the best values in France and even some first-rate and age-worthy reds. Red wine varieties include most of the Chateâuneuf-du-Pape varieties like Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Counoise, as well as Carignan. White grapes grown include Grenache blanc, Roussanne and Viognier, among others.