Viniou Reviews
Château Montmirail’s Cuvée L’Ermite 2023 Vacqueyras Rouge is a potent and elegant wine hailing from the southern Rhône. Crafted primarily from Grenache, with likely contributions from Syrah and Mourvèdre typical of the appellation, this youthful vintage displays the energetic, juicy fruit profile emblematic of the hot 2023 growing season and the sun-drenched terroirs of the region. The soils here are a mosaic of clay-limestone and stony galets roulés, which provide excellent drainage and heat retention, resulting in grapes that reach optimal ripeness. While traditional vinification methods are common at Château Montmirail, the estate is known for extracting generous fruit concentration and structure while preserving the signature freshness that distinguishes superior Vacqueyras wines. Expect aromas of ripe black cherries, blackberries, and Mediterranean herbs, complemented by subtle spice and hints of garrigue on the finish.
Vacqueyras is nestled in the southern Rhône Valley, on the left bank of the Rhône river just northeast of Gigondas. The region benefits from a classic Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and the occasional cool mistral wind, ideal for robust red wines. The stony soils, interspersed with sand and marl, impart finesse and complexity, and the region’s history of viticulture dates back to Roman times. Vacqueyras has long been overshadowed by its renowned neighbours, but in recent decades it has firmly established itself as a source of high-quality, characterful wines.
For food pairing, this Vacqueyras shines alongside classic Provençal dishes such as lamb chops with thyme, beef daube, or a robust ratatouille. It is equally well-matched to grilled red meats, game birds, or a selection of mature, hard cheeses. For an authentic regional experience, try it with a wild boar stew or roasted Mediterranean vegetables with garlic and rosemary.
Serve this wine at approximately 16-18°C, ideally after a brief decant to help the youthful tannins soften and the aromatic complexity unfurl. While approachable in its youth for its vibrant fruit, the wine will benefit from a couple of years in the cellar, allowing the tannic structure to integrate and secondary notes to emerge.
