KEEPING WARM WITH RASTEAU WINE

If you’re going to have a picnic outside in the UK in December, you’re going to need something to keep you toasty - and what better than a wine from the hottest village of the Southern Rhône?!⁣

Rasteau wine

Rasteau produces dry and fortified red wines made from Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (sometimes Carignan and other additional varieties too, in small amounts). This year, the appellation is celebrating 10 years as a Cru of the Côtes du Rhône, the highest accolade given within the region. It’s a badge of honour, which recognises Rasteau’s distinctive terroir and high quality production. ⁣

Rasteau was completely new to me and I was thrilled to have been invited to celebrate the appellation’s success with a gorgeous hamper of treats. Cheese, nuts, honey, chocolate - all the good stuff that tastes great with a deliciously concentrated, fruity, spicy red. ⁣

> Read about Winter Whites here

Chateau du Trignon Rasteau 2016

This 2016 vintage from Chateau du Trignon actually reminded me of an old vine Zinfandel - it must have been the black fruits, the baking spices and the chocolate notes. Smooth, soft tannins and a medium acidity made this 15% ABV wine extremely drinkable - exactly what we needed to keep us warm on a cold night!⁣