La Réserve Saint Dominique -- Rasteau Rouge

Eric Bonnet created this label out of the desire to continue to bring affordable, well-made wines from his home region of Courthézon, in SE France. He works with his parents on La Bastide Saint Dominique, and nurtures this project as well. This region, which is just a stone’s throw from the prized Châteauneuf du Pape, is uniquely situated for growing Grenache – the growing season is hot and dry: think of the soil with large Galet stones that soak up each day’s intense heat, radiating it through the vines all night, and of the famous Mistral, a wind that blows so intensely and consistently that the vines are rarely at risk of mold or rot, not to mention clouds are never allowed to linger, providing even more consistent sunshine.

Grape: Grenache 80%, Syrah 15%, Mourvèdre 5%

Region: Rasteau, Rhône Valley, France

Farming: Organic (AB), Sustainable, harvested at 1,500 ft elevation at the foot of Mont Ventoux 

Winery: Fermented in stainless, aged in neutral French oak