2018 Rasteau Vielles Vignes

70% Grenache (80 years old), 20% Syrah (40 years old), 10% Mourvèdre (40 years old). Two-thirds destemmed. Limestone-clay slopes, blue and yellow clay. 10 months in one- and two-year-old barrels then 10 months in foudre (Allier, Tronçais). Cask sample. Bright deepish crimson. Luscious and round with a hint of oak at this stage. You’d probably prefer to wait until the aromas are of pure fruit. Juicy and only very slightly jammy but it’s sweet rather than structured. (JR)

Also deeply colored, the 2018 Rasteau Vieilles Vignes has rocking purity and freshness as well as tons of black cherry, blackberries, scorched earth, graphite, and peppery garigue aromas and flavors. It's rich, concentrated, medium to full-bodied, and just another beautiful wine. The blend is 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre that was two-thirds destemmed and will spend 10 months in once- and twice-used oak followed by 10 months in foudre. As I’ve written in the past, this is a top-flight estate making a bevy of brilliant wines from both the northern and southern Rhône. The wines fall into the progressive category and are largely brought up in barrels, with some new, yet the wines never lose their typicity or character. If you like rich, textured, yet pure and impeccably made wines, give these a go.