Lavau 2022 Rasteau

Lavau's 2022 Rasteau is a bold Southern Rhône red crafted from 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah. This wine offers rich aromas of cassis, dark cherries, grilled herbs, and baking spices. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied with fine tannins and a dense core of spice, leading to a compact finish.  This wine has been well-received by critics, with James Suckling describing it as "a textural, well-rounded and dense blend" and recommending it for enjoyment from 2025 onward.  Lavau's 2022 Rasteau exemplifies the character of the Rasteau appellation, known for producing Grenache-dominant dry red wines with depth and complexity. "A lot of wine, with blackberry pâte de fruit and lavender woven with an earthy dimension of warm soil, black pepper and bacon fat. Density builds, powered by a salty vein of graphite mineral notes. There's a sultry edge to the finish, which shows grilled sandalwood smoke and singed anise. Drink now through 2028. 3,000 cases made, 900 cases imported." Wine Spectator 90 points Maison Lavau, founded in 1965 in the Rhone Valley, started growing strategically in 2000 when Frédéric and Benoît Lavau took over. In 2013, they merged with Château Maucoil, emphasizing their commitment to quality wines and the region’s character. Today, it’s one of the few family-run estates, focusing on sharing, pleasure, and simplicity. The grapes from the Rasteau appellation are sourced from plots situated near the village, on hillsides that face east and are covered in stones. The Grenache and Syrah vines are cultivated on moderately deep, dry, pebbly terrain, leading to reduced yields and a delayed ripening period.