Lavau Vacqueyras 2020

Lavau Vacqueyras is a generous Southern Rhône red that balances ripe fruit with polish rather than brute force. The 2020 blends 50% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, bringing red fruit and fig to the fore, backed by gentle spice and fine, neatly woven tannins. Fruit comes from west-facing parcels on the Vacqueyras plain, where vines average 35 years old on free-draining alluvial and sandy soils. It is rich enough for a proper steak dinner, but its supple shape and immediate drinkability make it just as useful when you want something satisfying without ceremony.

What the winery says:

The grapes are fully destemmed and spend around 24 days in temperature-controlled vats, with rack-and-return and regular pumping over during fermentation. The wine is then split for maturation, with 60% aged in vat and 40% in previously used 450 litre barrels for 12 months before blending. The tasting notes highlight red fruit, fig and soft spice, followed by an elegant palate with fine tannins. Decanting is not considered necessary, and rib of beef or entrecôte with herb butter are suggested at the table.

What the experts say:

James Suckling, 90 points (2020)
“A perfumed nose with mixed berries, dark cherries, dried herbs, dried leaves and baking spices. Medium to full body with creamy tannins. Quite rich with plenty of fruit in the center and a round and generous finish.”