Domaine Richaud - Cairanne rouge 2022

Bettane & Desseauve

About the domain :

Certain winegrowers alone can evoke an entire appellation, and the charismatic Marcel Richaud is one of them. He was undoubtedly instrumental in establishing the reputation of the latest Côtes du Rhône Sud crus. A visionary and pioneer of parcel-based winegrowing, he still dreams of a Burgundy-style climat classification, and with 45 vintages under his belt, he is as hands-off as possible in the cellar and in the vineyard. Like a certain Emmanuel Reynaud, he accompanies his grapes to optimum ripeness, producing wines that are both gourmand and elegant, a real signature. All the wines tasted this year are highly commendable and remarkably consistent. The young generation who joined the family business a few years ago are determined to perpetuate the house's know-how. Nevertheless, as if to mark a turning point, Claire and Thomas have acquired an additional 20 hectares, half of which adjoins the famous Ebrescades parcel, auguring lovely surprises to come. Most recently, Edith, the youngest daughter, gave in to the siren call of the vines; after a brilliant Parisian career in the luxury sector, she finally settled in the charming little village of Cairanne, bringing an additional asset to the beautiful Richaud tribe.

Decanter

About the wine:

Beautiful aromas of black olive and rosemary, followed by fresh blueberry, lavender and blackberry on the palate. Very well defined and structured, this wine has much more depth and length than most of this year's Cairannes.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the wine:

Beautiful, expressive fruit (spices), with Syrah dominating the aromas (peppery nuance). Full-bodied on the palate, defined by a serious, concentrated structure. The tannins are full-bodied and well-defined. Deep juice.

About the domain :

There are very few winemakers in France as demanding and complete, from vine to cellar, as Marcel Richaud. He has reached the pinnacle of his art now that he has a winery and ageing facility to match his ambitions. For the wine lover, this producer's work is a blessing. His entire range reaches a remarkable level and is immediately seductive. Year after year, the wines gain in finesse and precision, while respecting their southern balance and maturity.

Jancis Robinson

About the wine:

Very seductive nose, primary notes of plum, real purity of expression. A lovely, fresh and engaging mid-palate, supported by fine, structured and rounded tannins. Well-balanced, with such purity of fruit and lively freshness through to the finish.

James Suckling

About the wine:

A well-composed, flavorful and precise red Cairanne with 40% Mourvèdre, 20% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 20% Carignan. The nose reveals notes of black cherry, baked plum, cassis and baking spices. Medium- to full-bodied, with powdery tannins. Well-balanced and textured, with a crushed berry character on the spicy finish. Lively and peppery.