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What We Say 2009 Rasteau - Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge
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Mission Codename: A Fortified History
Operative: Agent White
Objective: Visit France’s Côtes du Rhône Villages and secure an exclusive allocation of a Rasteau Côtes du Rhône Villages AOC.
Mission Status: Accomplished!
Current Winery: Domaine de Verquiere
Wine Subject: 2009 Rasteau – Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge
Backgrounder: In the Côtes du Rhône Villages and its environs are several villages that have achieved their own AOC status as in the case of today’s selection from the Rasteau AOC. Originally designated in 1944 and became a Côtes du Rhône Villages cru in 1967. The history of this region dates back to the 17th century and was originally known for its fortified wines. The wines of this region must be at least 50% Grenache and a combination of a minimum of 20% of either or both Syrah and Mourvedre.
Today’s selection is 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah and through a very special arrangement, we are able to bring you an exclusive allocation of this wine that is generally not imported into the United States.
Wine Spies Tasting Profile:
Look – Dark garnet with a deep and dense, but clear core that shows streaks of light when held to the light. Along the edges, the color pales just slightly and this wine leaves randomly spaced medium-thick legs of varying speeds on the side of the glass.
Smell – Initially rich that becomes more restrained as it opens with spicy aromas of earthy red fruit including red plum, red cherry and other tart berries. Just under the fruit are perfumed notes of floral violets, soft earthy mushroom and slate mineral notes.
Feel – Smooth and dry on the initial attack. Then at mid-palate, this youthful wine’s textured and firm tannins blend with etched minerality and this wine’s lively acidity to add a youthful mouthfeel.
Taste – Tart red fruit including red cherry, tart raspberry, a touch of sour plum mingle with hot and exotic spice, earthy and mushroom notes, mocha and bittersweet chocolate, a distinct mineral slate and graphite component and hints of the floral violets found on the nose.
Finish – Medium to long in length with the spice and minerality lingering on the tip of the tongue as the fruit and other flavors fade and the firm tannins dry the palate and invite another sip.
Conclusion – The 2009 Domaine de Verquiere 2009 Rasteau Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge is a both restrained and old world as well as a unique and food friendly Rhone blend that shows plenty of classic Grenache character as well as the region’s distinct mineral qualities. A wine that benefits greatly by giving it time to open, pair this wine with hearty fall stews or roast meats. Enjoy this wine tonight or cellar for three years.
Wine Spies Vineyard Check:
The approximate location of the Rasteau AOC can be seen in this satellite photo.
What the Winery Says
Domaine de Verquiere
About This Wine:
With a deep colour, the nose discloses scents of truffle and quince. Powerful on the palate, this wine fits in a scenario dominated by pride and generosity. 10 years of aging will not damage the taste…
Food Pairing: You will particulary enjoy our Rasteau. Côtes du Rhône Villages, accompanied by meat, in sauce, game and cheese.
Winemaking: Picking is all done by hand. The fermentation temperature is controlled by a heat exchanger at 30°C. The traditional fermentation on skins lasts from 10 to 12 days in the vat.
About The Winery:
Transmitted of wire father, the FIELD OF VERQUIERE has been directed today by Romain and Thibaut CHAMFORT who they ensure the continuity and development of family farms in accordance with the traditions. Passionate, their commitment also involves the conversion of vineyards in organic farming.
Domaine de Verquiere established its reputation thanks to the work and the know-how of several generations. When he was young, great Grandfather Edmond bought the buildings to which he gave life again. He used to sell his wines in big barrels to the best wine-merchants of the area.
Grandfather Louis, with dynamism, gave a new impulse to the domain by selling the wines in bottles and by extending the estate. On his steps, the father Bernard and his wife Genevieve took over, respecting the quality of the wines and increasing the sales through export.
This peaceful country house, which is a rural provençale farm, delights the visitor with its setting of greenness. Their children and grandchildren were born and grew up there. Their attachment to these old walls is real.
Sheltered by the medieval village, the wine-cellar faces south. In the background, the Dentelles de Montmirail overlook the vineyard of the estate.
Technical Analysis:
Varietals/Encepagement: 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah
Appellation: Côtes du Rhône Villages
Soil: Clayey-chalky with rounded pebbles.
Alcohol: 14.5%
