France — wine
Vacqueyras
Elevated to AC in 1990. Neighbour to Gigondas, spicier and more herb-driven. Domaine Le Sang des Cailloux is the benchmark. Smaller, less-known, often underpriced relative to quality — reliable Rhône value for BC wine lists.
Vintage assessments
| Year | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | Excellent Southern Rhône growing season; Grenache achieved good ripeness with garrigue expression well defined |
| 2022 | 87 | Good warm vintage. Rich, concentrated Grenache. Structured and cellar-worthy. |
| 2021 | — | Elegant vintage; the Dentelles de Montmirail's altitude produced wines of excellent freshness; Syrah component particularly fine. |
| 2020 | — | Benchmark year; Sang des Cailloux and Château des Tours produced Vacqueyras of the highest quality. |
| 2019 | 88 | Very good. Classic Southern Rhône character. Brunel de la Gardine and Domaine de la Monardière strong. |
| 2018 | 90 | Excellent Vacqueyras. Grenache-dominant with Syrah and Mourvèdre support. Rich, dark, structured — excellent CdP alternative at half the price. |