The top release from Vacqueyras is the 2013 Vacqueyras le Clos, which comes from a single plot of vines on clay soils, and is equal parts Grenache and Syrah. As always, it’s completely destemmed, sees only native yeast and is raised all in concrete tanks. From a cooler, sun-challenged vintage, it offers medium-bodied depth and solid concentration, as well as pretty aromatics of tobacco leaf, mint, red plums and black raspberries. Borderline outstanding, it’s drinking nicely today, but should cruise for 7-8 years.

This has hit its stride, with mulled plum, blackberry and boysenberry fruit flavors melded perfectly with singed alder, dried anise and tobacco leaf accents. The long finish has good energy. Drink now through 2020. 833 cases made, 112 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Vacqueyras Select to Add