Tasting notes
A deeply coloured, full-bodied wine with a classic Southern Rhône nose of black fruits, liquorice and wild herbs (garrigue). The palate is rich with firm tannins and a long, spicy finish. Ideal with rich stews, grilled meats and hard cheeses.
Why we recommend this wine
Following our trips to the Southern Rhône, we continue to be impressed by the quality coming out of the top 'crus'. This wine from Vacqueyras offers incredible depth and character that rivals its more famous neighbours. It's a classic expression of the terroir at a good price.
The wine
The wine is a classic Southern Rhône blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre from 40-year-old vines. The vineyards are on clay-limestone soils covered with the region's famous 'galets roulés' (large pudding stones). The grapes are fermented in stainless steel vats and the wine is then racked in used oak barrels for up to two years before being fined, filtered and bottled.
The wine estate
This wine is produced by the highly respected Yves Cheron. Cheron who is a 'Négociant-Vinificateur' – both a wine merchant and a winemaker. He produces wines from his own estate vineyards (under the Grand Montmirail label) and also vinifies wines from grapes bought from trusted growers through his négociant enterprise, La Grand Comtadine. It is this business, formerly Pascal Frères, that now produces this excellent Vacqueyras, ensuring a continuity of quality and expertise.
famillecheron.com
Food and wine
This is a powerful, structured red that calls for hearty food. It is a perfect match for a beef daube or other rich winter stews, grilled red meats, and strong, mature cheeses. Refer also to our food and wine pairing guide, click here.
Did you know?
Vacqueyras was elevated to its own Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status in 1990, recognizing its distinct quality. Alongside Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas, it is one of the premier 'crus' of the Southern Rhône for red wines. It often represents excellent value compared to its more famous neighbours while delivering a similarly powerful and complex wine.