Domaine La Soumade

Domaine La Soumade Rasteau 2021

Grape Variety

• 80% Grenache Noir
• 10% Syrah
• 10% Mourvèdre

Description

Produced by Domaine La Soumade in the prestigious cru village of Rasteau in the Southern Rhône Valley, this wine is a benchmark example of the appellation. Founded by André Roméro in 1979 and now run alongside his son Frédéric, the estate has earned a reputation as one of Rasteau's finest producers. The vineyards are planted on clay-limestone soils that naturally produce concentrated wines with excellent ageing potential. Hand-harvested fruit, low yields and meticulous winemaking result in a wine that combines power, elegance and remarkable value.

Tasting Notes

Appearance
Deep ruby red with garnet highlights.

Nose
Expressive aromas of blackberry, black cherry and cassis, layered with notes of garrigue, cedarwood, black pepper and subtle spice.

Palate
Rich and generous with flavours of ripe black fruits, raspberry and blackberry supported by silky tannins and a velvety texture. Notes of Mediterranean herbs, liquorice and spice bring complexity, while freshness keeps the wine beautifully balanced.

Finish
Long, elegant and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, pepper and savoury Rhône character.

Food Pairing

• Roast lamb with rosemary
• Côte de Boeuf
• Beef bourguignon
• Cassoulet
• Barbecued meats
• Venison
• Duck confit
• Mature Comté
• Tomme de Brebis

This is a wine that thrives alongside hearty dishes and classic Southern French cuisine.

Technical Information

• Classification: AOP Rasteau
• Region: Southern Rhône Valley
• Country: France
• Vintage: 2021
• Grape Varieties: 80% Grenache Noir, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre
• ABV: 14.5%
• Soils: Clay-limestone
• Harvest: Hand-picked
• Vinification: Traditional fermentation with punch-downs and pump-overs in stainless steel tanks
• Ageing: 18 months on fine lees before light filtration
• Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
• Decanting: 30–60 minutes recommended
• Cellaring Potential: 5–10 years

Olivier's Thoughts

If I had to choose one wine that perfectly demonstrates the value of the Southern Rhône, this would be very close to the top of the list. Domaine La Soumade has long been considered one of the leading estates of Rasteau, and this wine explains exactly why. It delivers everything people love about Châteauneuf-du-Pape—ripe Grenache fruit, garrigue herbs, spice and depth—but often at a fraction of the price.

What I particularly enjoy is the balance. It has plenty of richness and concentration, yet it never feels heavy. The fruit remains vibrant, the tannins are polished and the finish keeps drawing you back for another glass. Whether paired with a Sunday roast, grilled meats or a winter casserole, this is a wine that consistently impresses and represents outstanding value for lovers of Rhône wines.