Domaine Richaud - Cairanne L'Ebrescade 2023

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Some winemakers, on their own, embody an entire appellation—the charismatic Marcel Richaud is one of them. He has undoubtedly helped establish the reputation of the newest addition to the Côtes du Rhône Sud crus. A visionary and pioneer of single-vineyard winemaking—who, even today, with 45 vintages under his belt, still dreams of a classification system modeled after Burgundy’s “climats”—he strives to be as non-interventionist as possible both in the cellar and in the vineyard. Like a certain Emmanuel Reynaud, he brings his grapes to optimal ripeness, producing wines that are both rich and elegant—a true signature style. All the wines tasted this year received top marks, proving to be highly recommendable and of absolutely remarkable consistency. The younger generation, which joined the family business a few years ago, is determined to carry on the estate’s expertise; however, as if to mark a turning point, Claire and Thomas have acquired an additional 20 hectares, half of which borders the famous Ebrescades plot, hinting at some delightful surprises to come. Most recently, Edith, the youngest of the siblings, succumbed to the call of the vineyards; after a brilliant career in the Parisian luxury sector, she finally settled in the charming little village of Cairanne, bringing a significant additional asset to the wonderful Richaud family.

Decanter

About the wine:

Deep in color, it offers a very intense and lively nose of licorice and violet. On the palate, it is full-bodied, rich, and velvety, with intensely flavorful aromas of black cherry and blackberry. It is rich in ripe tannins and has lovely acidity. The alcohol content is quite high, but that’s the price you pay for such expressive, ripe, and delicious dark fruit! The tannins are firm, reminiscent of blackberry skin.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

There are very few winemakers in France as demanding and thorough—from the vineyard to the cellar—as Marcel Richaud. He has reached the pinnacle of his craft now that he has a winemaking and aging facility that matches his ambitions. For wine lovers, this producer’s work is a blessing. His entire range is of remarkable quality and immediately captivating. Year after year, the wines gain in finesse and precision, while retaining their southern balance and maturity.

Jancis Robinson

About the wine:

A complex and powerful nose offering numerous nuances, with aromas of licorice and blackberry—so expressive! Concentrated black fruit, accompanied by fine, velvety tannins that coat the palate, along with a superb texture; an explosion of black fruit carries through to the finish. Long on the palate and perfectly balanced—a true delight.

James Suckling

About the wine:

A deep nose with aromas of black berries, black plums, baking spices, and hints of tar. Medium- to full-bodied, this wine features fine tannins and a lovely fruit-forward richness, with a generous character and a long, savory, peppery finish.