Winemaker Notes
Blend: 50% Grenache, 50% Syrah
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
Quite ripe but very pure, with a silky core of raspberry and cherry reduction notes unadorned with toast, streaming through to an iron- and black tea-infused finish. Drink now through 2019. 833 cases made.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Tasted out of tank, the 2014 Vacqueyras le Clos (50/50 Grenache and Syrah) is another well-made wine from this family run estate. It reveals attractive notes of black cherry, kirsch, spice and smoked herbs, with medium-bodied depth and richness on the palate, and lively, bright acidity. It falls off slightly on the finish, but still has plenty of charm. It should drink nicely through 2022.
Range: 88-90
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.