Wines Vacqueyras Domaine La Monardière - Jeu de Garri

Domaine La Monardière’s “Cuvée Jeu de Garri” Vacqueyras rouge, presented here without a vintage, embodies the expressive style typical of the southern Rhône. While the precise blend is not specified, Vacqueyras reds are traditionally composed of Grenache, often alongside Syrah and Mourvèdre, yielding robust wines with generous fruit, garrigue-infused aromatics, and supple tannins. The Domaine is known for attentive vineyard practices and a careful approach to vinification that aims to respect the natural character of its grapes. The absence of a declared vintage suggests this may be a non-vintage blend, potentially crafted to deliver consistent style and immediate pleasure.

Vacqueyras is situated in the heart of the southern Rhône Valley, benefitting from a warm, Mediterranean climate. Abundant sunshine and the cleansing Mistral wind allow grapes to ripen fully while remaining healthy, and the varied terroir—encompassing stony alluvial soils as well as sandy and clay-limestone parcels—supports wines of depth and structure. Vacqueyras has enjoyed cru status since 1990, testament to a winemaking heritage that balances power and finesse, shaped both by geological diversity and a long history of viticultural craftsmanship.

This style of Vacqueyras rouge is particularly well-suited to hearty fare. Classic southern French cuisine such as lamb shoulder with Provençal herbs, daube de boeuf, or a cassoulet finds harmonious company in its ripe fruit, earthy undertones and savoury spice. For a vegetarian option, slow-roasted Mediterranean vegetables or a mushroom and lentil stew would beautifully complement the wine’s structure and aromatic complexity.

For the best expression, serve this Vacqueyras at 16-18°C after allowing it a brief time to breathe. Decanting is optional but can help reveal further layers of aroma and soften the wine’s youthful edges, particularly if enjoyed shortly after release. This ensures a balanced, pleasurable tasting experience where fruit, spice, and garrigue notes shine.