Rasteau Les Argiles Bleues — 2020
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Vineyard Profile
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A selection of plots characterized by their exceptional soil shot through with blue Pliocene marl, rich in minerals. A singular expression of a unique identity.
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Vintage Report
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Following a mild, wet winter that replenished groundwater reserves, the season was notable for its early harvest. On March 25th, frost damage limited the vegetative cycle. The equally mild and damp spring, prompted regular applications of herbal infusions and essential oils that effectively protected the crop. Flowering started in the second week of May which confirmed the early nature of the vintage. The plentiful water resources accumulated over winter and the occasional summer showers ensured a progressive and optimum ripening of the grapes. The harvest was notably splendid and picking lasted from August 25th to the final days of September.
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Vinification
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The grapes are hand-picked and sorted in the vineyard. Co-fermentation, long vatting for soft extractions. Matured for 12 months in oak foudres.
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: Grenache 80% • Syrah 20%
- Alcohol: 15.0%
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Tasting Notes
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An inexhaustible reservoir of mineral elements, Argiles Bleues is a wine of great finesse. A superb marriage of plush, juicy fruit, fine, delicate tannins, and phenomenal minerality.
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Images
Reviews
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Rasteau Les Argiles Bleues — 2020 – Decanter – 95 Points
“Decidedly fresh, open and giving on the nose. This has a gorgeous fruit expression, showing blackberry, thyme, rosemary and black olive. Only medium-bodied on the palate, nicely tucked-in and tailored, with a good sense of freshness, precision and finesse. It finishes long, neat and tapered. This is harmonious and very good indeed.”
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Les Argiles Bleues, Rasteau AOC — 2020 – Wine Spectator – 91 Points
“There is underlying power to this seductive wine, which opens with rich blackberry paste and vanilla-steeped cherry edged in graphite and roasted herbs. This is anchored by fine-grained tannins and a salty, smoky mineral finish that lingers.”