Vacqueyras

Following the recognition of the Côtes-du-Rhône AOC by decree in 1937, Vacqueyras was one of the first villages to be recognized for the quality of its wines, leading to its classification as Côtes du Rhône Vacqueyras in 1955, and subsequently as Côtes du Rhône Villages Vacqueyras in 1967. Vacqueyras was finally established as a local appellation in 1990. 

For the Vacqueyras wines For red wines, which account for 97% of production, the blend must consist of at least 50% Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Mourvèdre (at least 20%); other Côtes du Rhône grape varieties, excluding Carignan, may be included in the blend up to a limit of 10%. For rosés, which account for 1% of production, producers use Grenache (up to 60%), Mourvèdre, and Cinsault (at least 15%). Finally, the Vacqueyras wines For the white wines, which account for only 2% of production, the estate uses Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Roussanne, Marsanne, and Viognier, with no single variety making up more than 80% of the blend. Of particular note are the wines produced by the estate The Blood of Stones, the Château des Tours, or the House Perrin & Sons.

Vacqueyras AOC Wine

The name of Vacqueyras, or Vaqueiras in Provençal, derives from the Latin *Vallea quadreria*, meaning “the valley of stones.” The final appellation of the Rhône Valley, whose territory encompasses all the municipalities of the Vaucluse department, Vacqueyras and Sarrians, is located in the heart of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The reputation achieved by the winemakers of Vacqueyras is based primarily on the richness and purity of their red wines. In fact, they are always distinguished by an intensity, freshness, and subtlety all their own.

History and Origins of the Vacqueyras Estate

The development of viticulture in the Rhône Valley region was made possible during the Roman colonization, particularly in the area around Orange between the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE. The ruins of a Roman villa have been discovered in the village of Vacqueyras. However, it is important to note that the earliest evidence of viticulture in Vacqueyras actually dates back to the Middle Ages. Indeed, as early as 1414, the presence of vineyards in the village is documented in the very first land registry of the Comtat Venaissin region. As early as 1448, there are references to taxes levied on the grape harvest and wine production in Vacqueyras. Following the Revolution, the wine-growing estates of the Comtat Venaissin, including the Vacqueyras estate, were annexed to France in 1791. Since 1937, the village of Vacqueyras has been part of the appellation area of the Côtes du Rhône. It became part of the Côtes du Rhône Villages appellation in 1955. In 1967, it was renamed Côtes du Rhône Villages and designated as a commune.

Appearance

The Vacqueyras red wines are ruby-red in their youth. As they age, they take on a darker hue. Rosé wines are characterized by an intense pink color. In the case of white wines, the glass is filled with a bright, golden color, with greenish highlights.

Olfactory analysis

In red wine, aromas of red fruits such as blackcurrant and cherry emerge very early on, while aromas of cooked or candied figs develop over time. These aromas are accompanied by spicy nuances (pepper, garrigue), pronounced notes (smoke), and sometimes hints of leather and game. In rosé wines, we find a range of citrus fruits, particularly grapefruit. As for white wines, aromas of acacia and broom take center stage. From this range emerges a fruity touch, similar to that of citrus fruits. They are characterized by a certain longevity of aroma.

Taste analysis

The reds are both majestic and refined. The tannins create a harmonious balance that stands the test of time. As for the rosés, they are very fruity. As for the whites, they have enough roundness and maturity to hold their own among the wines