Domaine Des Richards
Southern Rhone, Violès
http://www.domaine-richard.com
Wine Maker: Pierre Combe

Since the 17th century Domaine des Richards, which takes its name from the Grandmother’s side of the current owners, is situated in the heart of the Vaucluse department. They are fine producers of Côtes-du-Rhône rouge, blanc and rosé, however it is the Muscat Beaumes de Venise and Vacqueyras for which they are famous.

Family wine makers Pierre Combe and Didier Guittet, respect tradition and the natural handling of their wine is simply an extension of their organic viticultural practices, hand picking and strict grape selection.

The cépage of the Muscat Beaumes de Venise is Muscat petits grains; after a rigorous berry by berry selection the fermentation is long (15 days) and cool to preserve the aromatics, the fermentation is halted and the alcoholic degree increased to 15% by the addition of a clean and pure grape spirit. After two rackings to clarify the wine it is gently filtered prior to bottling.

Wine Available

Muscat de Beaumes de Venise Vin Doux Naturel -750ml-
The nose is beautifully aromatic and fresh evoking ripe peach, apricot and grape nuances; the fortification is first class as it is barely noticeable, the wine is loaded with delicate florals and elegance. The palate delivers perfect balance and harmony between the rich ripe, clean and fresh sweet pineapple, mango and apricot flavors and the glycerol of the fortification and lovely finesse and acidity.

Vacqueyras 2006
Good plumy color, the nose shows some plum and spice notes, the shiraz in this seems quite ripe and spicy with some licorice notes. The palate has lovely ripe sweet but punchy fruit with the syrah showing more than the Grenache with the sweet dark plum fruits and buried tannic backbone. 60% Grenache & 40% syrah.