Wines Vacqueyras Domaine Le Clos des Cazaux - Cuvée des Templiers - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Le Clos des Cazaux's "Cuvée des Templiers" 2016 is a red Vacqueyras, hailing from the heart of the southern Rhône. Dominated by Grenache and complemented typically by Syrah and Mourvèdre, this blend is emblematic of the region's robust yet elegant style. The 2016 vintage enjoyed particularly favourable conditions, resulting in ripe, concentrated fruit and fine tannic balance. The wine expresses notes of black cherry, plum, garrigue herbs and spices, supported by hints of liquorice and subtle oak from careful ageing. The terroir, with its stony, well-draining soils and alluvial deposits, adds depth and a touch of salinity, while the Mediterranean climate ensures rich ripeness and supple textures.

Vacqueyras is nestled on the left bank of the Rhône, at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountains. The area is known for its warm, dry climate, tempered by the mistral wind, which helps keep the vineyards healthy and concentrates flavours in the fruit. The soils, a mix of clay, sand, and pebbles (galets roulés), play a crucial role in draining surplus water and reflecting rainfall and sunlight, giving wines of structure and freshness. Historically, Vacqueyras was under the shadow of more famous neighbours, but since gaining its own AOC status in 1990, it has built a reputation for producing reds of power, complexity, and longevity.

For food pairings, the Cuvée des Templiers is well suited to robust dishes. Think lamb shoulder studded with garlic and rosemary, roasted duck with Provencal herbs, or a classic daube provençale. The wine’s peppery and earthy character also pairs beautifully with wild mushroom risotto, beef stew with olives, and regional favourites such as ratatouille or lentils with Toulouse sausage. Aged cheeses like Comté or Saint-Nectaire will also complement its mature notes.

Serve this Vacqueyras around 16-18°C, allowing it an hour of aeration to fully reveal its aromatic depth and supple tannins. This wine is showing wonderfully now but will reward further cellaring for a few more years to develop tertiary notes of leather, truffle, and forest floor.