DOMAINE DE LA SOUMADE Rasteau 'Cuvee Prestige' (Andre Romero) 2020 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
Domaine de La Soumade, founded by André Romero in 1979, is lauded as one of the finest producers in the Rasteau region, which gained AOC status alongside Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas in 2010. The Cuvée Prestige is a remarkable blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvèdre, expertly crafted through nearly four weeks of fermentation and maceration to extract rich colour, flavour, and tannins. Aged in old 4,000L oak vats and concrete tanks, it reveals enticing aromas of violets and lavender, layered with intense summer berry flavours. Rated 94 points by Decanter for its density and balance, and 93 points by Wine Enthusiast for its aromatic complexity, this exceptional wine is perfect for serving with hearty dishes or enjoying on its own.

ABOUT THE WINE
Andre Romero founded Domaine Soumade in 1979 and is now considered perhaps the finest producer in the region. The village of Rasteau was elevated to AOC status alongside Chateauneuf du Pape and Gigondas and 2010, and we find that while the styles are similar there is more freshness in Rasteau than the other two. The Cuvee Prestige is a gorgeous wine, made from a classic blend of Grenache (70%), Syrah (20%) and Mourvedre (10%) made with an extensive fermentation and maceration of nearly four weeks to extract colour, favour and tannins, following very gentle maturation in a combination of old 4,000L oak vats (foudres) and concrete tanks. This is a wine with beautiful perfume of violets and lavender, and stacked with the flavour of summer berries. The tannins are fine, sandy and delicately spicy.

DECANTER 94 points
Tasted by: Matt Walls
(at United Kingdom, 01 Mar 2023)
Part of Walls: Rasteau 2020 in bottle
Drinking Window: 2023 - 2035
Good density, freshness and intensity here, with genuine Rasteau creamy-clay tannins. Powerful but not excessive, the alcohol is better balanced than expected. Relatively dark-fruited in style, with damson and black cherry and real presence on the palate. A fresh, powerful, balanced Rasteau that will last for over a decade in bottle. Fermented in stainless steel, aged for 18 months in concrete tanks (75%) and foudres (25%).

WINE ENTHUSIAST 93 points
The nose is captivatingly wild, with violet, rose, wild herbs, and leather weaving together, resting atop a bed of gentle black plums. As soft tannins melt into the wine, vibrant acidity breathes life into the ripe blackberry and plum flavors. It's a wine that feels both approachable and complex, showing beautifully now with just a gentle decant. A delightful experience that invites immediate enjoyment. — Anna-Christina Cabrales

*****

ABOUT THE PRODUCER
Domaine de La Soumade is a celebrated winery nestled in the picturesque Rasteau appellation of the Southern Rhône Valley, famed for its exceptional red wines crafted by the larger-than-life winemaker André Romero. Known as the "superstar of Rasteau," Romero embodies a passion for winemaking that is as vibrant and exuberant as his personality. His charm and enthusiasm for the craft make visiting Domaine de La Soumade an unforgettable experience for wine lovers and enthusiasts alike.

A self-proclaimed fervent supporter of the Marseille football club, Romero's passion extends beyond winemaking to his love for the beautiful game. This zeal often infuses his winemaking philosophy, producing wines that are not just technically accomplished but also full of character and soul.

Domaine de La Soumade boasts incredible terroirs, with a significant presence of old-vine Grenache, which greatly influences the quality of its wines. Romero produces five cuvées, each a true reflection of his dedication to crafting full-throttle, concentrated, and exuberant wines. The estate excels in Côtes du Rhône and Rasteau wines, garnering high praise from critics, including Robert Parker, who has highlighted the finesse and richness of these offerings.

Under the guidance of consulting winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt, Romero crafts wines that balance bold flavors with elegance. The vineyard practices adhere to organic farming principles, and the wines are bottled without fining or filtration, allowing for a genuine expression of the terroir. Comprised of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah, Domaine de La Soumade’s wines exhibit rich fruit character, vibrant acidity, and refined tannins, making them a standout choice for collectors and connoisseurs seeking exceptional Rhône wines. With André Romero at the helm, the winery is not only a testament to the art of winemaking but also an embodiment of passion and personality that resonates with wine lovers worldwide.