Domaine de la Charbonnière Vacqueyras 2022

A rich Southern Rhone red with impressively fine tannins that balance both the full body and deep black fruit. Long and supple yet finely nuanced finish with subtle spicy notes.

Steeped cherry and bitter plum show a streak of tobacco in this bold, concentrated red. Its tannins are firm yet finessed, giving this real structure through the broad finish. Offers good energy and iron minerality. The finish is well-packed, long and mouthwatering, wafting with charred sandalwood smoke and incense. Grenache and Syrah. Drink now through 2030. 1,300 cases made, 480 cases imported.

Vinified from Grenache (60%) and Syrah (40%) of 35-year-old vines in sandy-clay soils, the 2022 Vacqueyras showcases alluring licorice, forest strawberry, dried herbs and a flicker of black cherry. Albeit full-bodied, concentrated and meticulously polished, the 2022 needs a little more length to merit a higher score.