Rasteau Wines

Rasteau was promoted to AOC status in 2010 for its red wines only, which also produces a small amount of fortified Vin Doux Naturel. The key grape here, as in much of The Rhone Valley is Grenache, which must make up at least 50% of the blend, along with either Syrah or Mourvèdre, or both. Vineyards are situated on warm south-facing slopes that are sheltered from the cold Mistral wind that blows through the Valley. As a result, Rasteau wines are ripe and full-bodied. The best wines tend to have a good bit of Syrah in the blend that has spent time in oak, but these do get more pricey.