Brunel de la Gardine Rasteau 2021
Southern Rhône Cru (Grenache dominant + Syrah, Mourvèdre). Known for powerful, structured, often slightly rustic wines, historically famous for Vin Doux Naturel but now primarily for bold dry reds. Often has more clay and higher elevation than neighbours like Cairanne.
Deep garnet. Aromatic blend of ripe blackberry, plum, dark cherry, licorice, cocoa, and distinct garrigue/herbal notes (bay leaf, thyme). Full-bodied and robust, showing Rasteau's characteristic structure with firm but ripe tannins, well-integrated with the concentrated fruit. The 2021 vintage provides excellent freshness and balance, preventing it from being overly heavy. Earthy, spicy finish.
Approachable now with decanting (1-2 hours), but will benefit greatly from 2-5 years of cellaring to allow tannins to soften further and complexity to develop. Peak drinking window likely 2026-2033.
About Brunel de la Gardine
Located in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine de la Gardine (often referred to as Brunel de la Gardine) is a renowned, family-owned estate steeped in Rhône tradition, established by Gaston Brunel in the mid-20th century, and now run by the 3rd and 4th generations (Patrick and Maxime Brunel).
They are celebrated for their traditional style with finesse: While deeply traditional (using concrete tanks, large foudres), they emphasize balance, elegance, and freshness over sheer power, often achieving remarkable drinkability relatively young while maintaining aging potential.
Southern Rhône Cru (Grenache dominant + Syrah, Mourvèdre). Known for powerful, structured, often slightly rustic wines, historically famous for Vin Doux Naturel but now primarily for bold dry reds. Often has more clay and higher elevation than neighbours like Cairanne.
Deep garnet. Aromatic blend of ripe blackberry, plum, dark cherry, licorice, cocoa, and distinct garrigue/herbal notes (bay leaf, thyme). Full-bodied and robust, showing Rasteau's characteristic structure with firm but ripe tannins, well-integrated with the concentrated fruit. The 2021 vintage provides excellent freshness and balance, preventing it from being overly heavy. Earthy, spicy finish.
Approachable now with decanting (1-2 hours), but will benefit greatly from 2-5 years of cellaring to allow tannins to soften further and complexity to develop. Peak drinking window likely 2026-2033.
About Brunel de la Gardine
Located in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine de la Gardine (often referred to as Brunel de la Gardine) is a renowned, family-owned estate steeped in Rhône tradition, established by Gaston Brunel in the mid-20th century, and now run by the 3rd and 4th generations (Patrick and Maxime Brunel).
They are celebrated for their traditional style with finesse: While deeply traditional (using concrete tanks, large foudres), they emphasize balance, elegance, and freshness over sheer power, often achieving remarkable drinkability relatively young while maintaining aging potential.
Southern Rhône Cru (Grenache dominant + Syrah, Mourvèdre). Known for powerful, structured, often slightly rustic wines, historically famous for Vin Doux Naturel but now primarily for bold dry reds. Often has more clay and higher elevation than neighbours like Cairanne.
Deep garnet. Aromatic blend of ripe blackberry, plum, dark cherry, licorice, cocoa, and distinct garrigue/herbal notes (bay leaf, thyme). Full-bodied and robust, showing Rasteau's characteristic structure with firm but ripe tannins, well-integrated with the concentrated fruit. The 2021 vintage provides excellent freshness and balance, preventing it from being overly heavy. Earthy, spicy finish.
Approachable now with decanting (1-2 hours), but will benefit greatly from 2-5 years of cellaring to allow tannins to soften further and complexity to develop. Peak drinking window likely 2026-2033.
About Brunel de la Gardine
Located in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Domaine de la Gardine (often referred to as Brunel de la Gardine) is a renowned, family-owned estate steeped in Rhône tradition, established by Gaston Brunel in the mid-20th century, and now run by the 3rd and 4th generations (Patrick and Maxime Brunel).
They are celebrated for their traditional style with finesse: While deeply traditional (using concrete tanks, large foudres), they emphasize balance, elegance, and freshness over sheer power, often achieving remarkable drinkability relatively young while maintaining aging potential.