Mikael Boutin - Rasteau 2020
Since 2010 Rasteau has enjoyed its own cru status, allowing for the production of red wine only. Approaching 1,000 hectares of vines, it’s a relatively large appellation for what is a small, fortified hilltop village. Grenache, by decree, is the dominant variety here, although the law dictates the use of some Syrah and/or Mourvèdre. Beyond that, you can expect to find the same diverse range of grapes found in the likes of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, including white varieties.
It would be fair to say that Rasteau has been one of the victims of climate change, with alcohol levels rising beyond control. A new generation of growers, however, is adapting their vineyard work to allow them to pick earlier and reign in the power to produce somewhat more elegant wines.
This wine is made in tiny quantitiies - Mikael has just two hectares and so just 300 of these bottles made it to the UK. Inside is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault and Mourvèdre.
It would be fair to say that Rasteau has been one of the victims of climate change, with alcohol levels rising beyond control. A new generation of growers, however, is adapting their vineyard work to allow them to pick earlier and reign in the power to produce somewhat more elegant wines.
This wine is made in tiny quantitiies - Mikael has just two hectares and so just 300 of these bottles made it to the UK. Inside is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault and Mourvèdre.