Winemaker Notes
A deep red wine. On the nose an explosion of red fruits. In the mouth, a lovely tannic structure, aromas of the 'Garrigues' or plains, and underwood.
Blend: 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
I loved the 2019 Vacqueyras Garrigues, and it’s one of my favorite vintages for this cuvée. Based on 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah brought up in tank, it offers earth red and blue fruits as well as beautiful truffly earth, underbrush, and pepper notes. Medium to full-bodied, lively, and balanced, it’s going to cruise for 10-12 years in the cellar.
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.