Winemaker Notes
Blend: 95% Grenache, 5% Syrah
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The star of the 2014s is unquestionably the 2014 Cotes du Rhone Villages Rasteau la Fontaine. Coming from two parcels and 95% Grenache and 5% Syrah, aged all in concrete tanks, it doesn't get much better in 2014 and it reveals a healthy ruby/purple-tinged color as well as elegant notes of black raspberries, black cherries, crushed flowers, spice and crushed rocks. Fine, silky and impeccably balanced...
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.