The 2010 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau Vieilles Vignes reveals the muscular, chocolaty, scorched earth, dense Grenache character of this sun-baked hillside appellation. With a dense ruby/purple color as well as a macho style, this 90% Grenache cuvee is rustic, earthy, full-bodied and massive. Cellar it for 2-4 years and drink it over the following 15+.
(Not yet released)
Michel Tardieu has excellent relationships with many growers in the southern Rhone, which is reflected in the quality of his three cuvees of Cotes du Rhone as well as what he accomplishes in Rasteau, Vacqueyras, Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape. He normally makes three cuvees of Chateauneuf du Pape, but I only tasted two on my recent visit.
Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661