2019 Domaine des Escaravailles La Ponce Rasteau

Rasteau's 880 hectares of vines are planted on marl and red and yellow clay soils over sandstone with rounded stones covering some sectors, which in heatwave vintages act like health insurance against hydric stress. By law, the Grenache component in the dry red blends must be 50% minimum, with Syrah and/or Mourvedre 20% minimum and other grape varieties of the appellation tolerated up to 20%. In 2010 the Rasteau AOC was created allowing the wines to be named after the village, dropping the Cotes-du-Rhone tag and joining the likes of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas at the pinnacle of the wine hierarchy in the Southern Rhone.

A Rich Blockbuster Rasteau.

A blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah sourced from vines over 60 years old and 40 years old respectively. The Syrah component is aged in old 225 litre barrels whilst the Grenache is aged in concrete vats for a period of 15 months.
Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Elevated black raspberry and liquorice aromas infused with pepper are trailed by black cherry, scorched earth, dried herb and graphite notes. Rich and power packed, the palate is engulfed with succulent black raspberry, liquorice and black cherry fruits which sit atop a scorched earth, subtle graphite, dried meat and peppered herb back drop. Robust yet opulent feel with a muscular tannin structure that is nonetheless well integrated. Outstanding torque with a long pepper laced pedal to the metal finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 15%