Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Black raspberries, sandalwood, graphite, and some pepper and savory herb notes all emerge from the 2023 Rasteau Les Ribes. Medium-bodied and nicely balanced, it has fine tannins, an elegant style, and should easily be outstanding. Made from 70% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, and 5% Cinsault, aged 80% in concrete vats and 20% in French oak demi-muids, it will drink well for at least a decade.
Barrel Sample: 90-92
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.