Eyebrows raised all around when we tasted Eric Boutelin’s 2022 Restanques Vacqueyras. Cutting right to the chase, it’s a thoroughly complete expression of true Southern Rhône character, classic in every way. Reticent notes of hot stones, fine dried herbs, and deep, dark fruit line the bouquet, very captivating yet restrained, tinged by hot asphalt, peppery spices, and dried violets. The palate is a picture of precision, its exceptional weight carried by wonderfully balanced, assertive yet finessed tannins and pinpoint acidity. The flavors take some coaxing, but that same depth from the nose is there in spades. Brooding dark fruits, earthy soil tones, iron, wild game, and fine floral accents come in well-defined succession to a lasting finish. It’s obvious this wine has some serious evolution in store. It’s absolutely enjoyable now for its undeniably classic personality, but it will become truly exceptional after several years in the cellar, especially considering the price.
94 points, Andrew Kitz, B-21 Rhone Buyer (Nov 2025)
The 2022 Vacqueyras les Restanques de Cabassole is a superb showing from this estate, delivering a powerful yet refined expression of Vacqueyras. A blend of 60% Grenache Noir, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre grown on marl, clay and calcareous sand soils, it offers up a deeply aromatic bouquet of crushed violets, wild spices, Timut pepper and ripe black fruits. Full-bodied and layered, it’s built around a dense, fleshy core of fruit, framed by velvety tannins and energized by a bright spine of acidity. Despite its concentration, the wine never feels heavy, concluding with a saline, ethereal finish that speaks to its underlying finesse. This is a serious Vacqueyras with depth, drive and aging potential.
94+ points, Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate (Oct 2025)
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