2019 Domaine Grand Nicolet Vieilles Vignes Rasteau

The first hectare of vines was planted on the Domaine Grand Nicolet property in 1875. The winery was established in 1926 and further plantings of Grenache and Carignan were made, replacing cereal crops. The present owner, Jean Pierre Bertrand purchased the Estate in 1999 which has now expanded to 70 acres of vines.
A blend of 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah & 15% Mourvedre sourced from vines with an average age of 45 years with some of the Grenache vines more than 90 years old. A portion of the Syrah is aged in 2-3 year old barrels for 12 months with the balance matured in concrete tank vats for 18 months.

A rich, large scaled Rasteau loaded with dense black fruit framed by muscular tannins.

Dense pitch black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Filling the nostrils are heady scents of black raspberry and liquorice with some black cherry, scorched earth, dried meat, herbs du Provence and blackpepper notes also evident. The rich, large scaled palate is a concentrate of black raspberry, black cherry and liquorice fruits framed by a stern tannin structure. Notions of scorched earth, dried herbs and peppered meats lie underneath. Dense and opulent yet grippy and muscular in its feel it boasts fantastic power. Finishes with surprising freshness and a long, robust blackpepper infused aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 15.5%

Other Reviews…..
The only 2019 presented, the 2019 Rasteau Vieilles Vignes checks in as 60% Grenache, 25% Syrah, and 15% Mourvèdre that was 80% destemmed and brought up mostly in concrete tank. This beauty is well worth seeking out and has classic Rasteau dark, meaty fruits as well as roasted herbs, leather, and pepper notes. Showing more freshness and floral notes with time in the glass, it’s full-bodied, has ripe tannins, and outstanding length.
91-93 points
JebDunnuck.com