Clefs des Murailles 2021 Vacqueryras

Swimming in the lane next to the Rhone's undisputed world champion, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Vacqueras' claim to fame has been that it offers a similar profile at a lower price point. Let's face it, CdP gets pricey, and most of us can't afford to pull those corks on a daily basis.

That's where this wine comes in - effusive, friendly, and giving, this wine is best described as gregarious. Fruit-driven and jammy, with lots of spice and sassafrass notes, lovers of Aussi Shiraz and Dry Creek Zins will eagerly add this wine to their wheelhouse.

A word on the glass bottle - the molded impression above the paper is called a cartouche and is common on the wines of CdP, Vacqueyras and Cornas. Each region has its own centuries-old design and their use is regulated by the region's wine laws.

"This wine is rich, with a concentrated core of fresh and sappy cassis, black currant, licorice, rhubarb, eucalyptus and baking spice over warm earth. The mouthfeel is round, with a long-textured finish. Notes of red berries are sprinkled with crushed black pepper. An easy, winning match with barbeque. 90/100" Wine Enthusiast