2012 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 20 hectares (50 acres) of vines. Rhone super star Philippe Cambie acts as consultant. The 2012 'Vielles Vignes' is a cuvee of 60% Grenache (sourced from 60 year old vines) and 40% Syrah (sourced from 30 year old vines). Only the Syrah component was matured in barrel so preserving the purity & freshness of the Grenache fruit.

Classic Rasteau…’ – Jeb Dunnuck – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

Totally opaque black dark crimson red colour with a dark crimson red hue. Nosing reveals aromas of dried herbs and black cherries followed by a faint hint of liquorice, meaty characters and spicy pepper. Full bodied with a rich chewy mouthfeel the palate features flavours of black cherries intermixed with black raspberries and liquorice followed by some meaty characters with a peppery back palate. Solid robust tannins impart some grip on the structured finish. Long aftertaste of peppered black cherries, black raspberries, liquorice and dried meats.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc 15%

Other Reviews….
Run by Jean-Pierre Bertrand, with consulting help from Philippe Cambie, this top-notch estate covers over 70 acres, mostly in Rasteau.

The 2012s here are loaded with potential. Starting out, the 2012 Rasteau Vieilles Vignes is 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah, with the Grenache aged all in concrete and the Syrah in 2-year-old barrels. Full-bodied, rich and beautifully proportioned, with sweet, silky tannin and rocking length, it gives up copious cassis, currants, graphite, crushed rock and licorice aromas and flavors. Classic Rasteau, it’s well worth seeking out and should shine for upward of a decade. Drink 2014-2022.
91-93 points
Jeb Dunnuck – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate