Domaine les Grands Bois Rasteau Cuvee Marc 2017

Sale $24.99 - Beats Best NC Price ($29.99 / $26.99 on a case)

95 pts Jeb Dunnuck

Rasteau only received full AOC status in 2010; that is, it was designated worthy of being labeled simply "Rasteau", as opposed to Cotes du Rhone Villages. In the minds of the French appellation folks, Rasteau is on the same level qualitatively as Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas and Lirac. Yet, it is still striving to receive the same recognition in the public eye. And you know that that means? Value!!!

Rasteau is located just north of Gigondas with an incredible array of soil types. It's vineyards are mostly south-facing and are largely protected from the Mistral winds. These winds whip down the Rhone Valley and can be a blessing (cooling the vines) and a curse (destroying fruit). As the vines of Rasteau are largely protected, they thrive unhindered. The resulting wines are big and powerful as a result. If this sounds like the wine for you, then read on!

Rich, ripe and intense, the buoyant cherry/berry flavors of the Grenache (50%) are given an earthy, meaty edge by the high dose of Mourvedre (25%). The remaining component, 25% Syrah, is aged in oak to round out the flavors and soften the back end of the wine. I can’t resist drinking this hedonistic delight young, but there is no doubt it will age for a decade. With time, it will reveal even more complex nuances. Enjoy!

"the 2017 Rasteau Marc checks in as 50% Grenache and 25% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre that spent just under a year in demi-muids. Gorgeous notes of cassis, blackberries, ground herbs, and earth all emerge from this rich, Provençal, full-bodied Rasteau. With ultra-fine tannins, incredible balance, and a great finish, it too is one of the finest wines I’ve tasted from this estate." JD


or reply. The wine is available now in Chapel Hill. Next Tuesday in Hillsborough, as ordered.