Fontaine du Clos Vacqueyras Reflets de l'Ame 2019
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Wilfred
Wong -
Jeb
Dunnuck
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2019 Domaine Fontaine du Clos Reflets de l'Aime Vacqueyras Rouge is smooth and delicate, yet rich and substantive. TASTING NOTES: This wine excels with the aromas and flavors of black fruits. Enjoy it with an old-fashioned beef stew. (Tasted: September 6, 2022, San Francisco, CA)
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Jeb Dunnuck
Also showing nicely, the 2019 Vacqueyras Reflets De L’Ame has a deep purple color as well as a meaty, mineral-laced, peppery style that carries plenty of darker earthy fruits, medium to full-bodied richness, building tannins, and a good finish. It should come together nicely once in bottle and drink well for 7-8 years.
Barrel Sample: 89-91
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
This charming appellation within the Côtes du Rhône Villages was second only to Gigondas to earn its own village appellation status. Its wines may be red, rosé or white—though hardly any is white. Its high winemaking standards follow many of the same rules as Chateauneuf-du-Pape. But for Vacqueyras red wines, half of the grapes have to be Grenache and the remainder is usually a combination of Syrah, Mourvedre and Cinsault.
While they can be robust and rustic in style, typically a great Vacqueyras red combines delicate aromas with intense fruit and a bright, crisp texture. They certainly don’t lack any character and show an abundance of black cherry, wild berry, plum, fig, baking spice, and a touch of game or smoke.