Winemaker Notes
Deep purple color. Expressive aromas of raspberry and candied cherry with spicy notes. On the palate, it is chewy and dense, with good fruit at its core and a very savory character. Supple tannins and lingering spiciness with fruity notes.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Always a good value, the 2019 Vacqueyras boasts impressive cassis and jammy blackberry fruits as well notes of Provençal garrigue and pepper. Round, medium to full-bodied, lush, and pleasure-bent, I love its overall balance, and it’s already impossible to resist. Based on 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre, drink this total charmer over the coming 7-8 years.
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.