Xavier Vins Vacqueyras 2007
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Robert
Parker
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Blend: 50% Syrah, 30% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 10% Cinsault
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The prodigious, full-bodied 2007 Vacqueyras boasts a deep ruby/plum/purple color along with dazzling levels of blackberry and kirsch fruit interwoven with notions of licorice, camphor, and scorched earth. It possesses remarkable intensity and purity as well as a skyscraper-like mouthfeel. Consume it over the next 10+ years.
An exciting discovery during my recent tastings in the Rhone Valley, this small Vacqueyras estate ,10 acres, produces just one wine, a brilliant blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre from low yields, and what appears to be impeccable winemaking. The wine’s upbringing is accomplished in small barrels (two-thirds) and foudre (one-third). This estate also owns 7.5 acres of vines in Gigondas, from which they produce a sensational blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Mourvedre, and 10% Syrah that is aged in equal parts small barrels and tank.
Range: 91-93
Today, Xaviers wines are available all over the world, and of course in France. They are the fruit of three complementary experience and skills gathered around one goal: to develop and distribute wines of excellent value, recognizable brand to Xavier.
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.