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Noncontractual photograph
A small ten-hectare vineyard, in the heart of the woods, planted in very poor, sandy soil producing wines with great finesse. The grape varieties there are: Grenache for red wine Grenache
Vintage | Wine 2009 |
Region | Rhône |
Appellation | Châteauneuf du Pape |
Colour | Red |
Volume | 0.75 l |
Country | France |
Château | Château Rayas |
Country | France |
Rayas is a french estate located in the south of the Rhône region. Purchased in 1980 by Albert Reynaud, four generations of winegrowers have succeeded in bringing this small family estate of 10 hectares up the ranks and produce great wines. The estate produces its wines under the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation.
Today the Rayas estate is managed and directed by Emmanuel Reynaud, great-grandson of Albert Reynaud. He also operates the Domaine des Tours and Fonsalette bought by his father Jacques Reynaud several years ago. Under the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, the estate cultivates Grenache grapes for red wines as well as for white wines with Clairette.
Côte Rotie
Pessac Leognan
Saint Joseph
Saint Julien
Saint Emilion
Pessac Leognan
Margaux
Pomerol
Saint Julien
(11-2022) The intensity of the nose, with its bouquet of flowers, black raspberries, kirsch, orange rind, cherries, and thyme get everything off to a good start. On the palate, you find that rare combination of freshness, sensuous textures, and an ocean of perfectly ripe, sweet red fruits that express a gorgeous sense of purity in the long, seamless, silky, creamy finish. With a few years of age, this could score even higher! This is Chateauneuf du Pape at its best. Drink from 2022-2044.
(10-2011) The 2009 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape is an awesome example of elegance combined with extraordinary power. The alcohol levels must be between 15.5% and 16%, but the elegance and sublime nature of this wine make it irresistible. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by an extraordinary bouquet of framboise, black cherry liqueur intermixed with blacker fruits, licorice and a hint of flowers. Pure with terrific layers of fruit concentration (although it's remarkably light on its feet), silky tannins, well-integrated acidity and a stunning personality, this monumental Rayas is breathtaking. This beauty will undoubtedly be drinkable early on (although Emmanuel Reynaud considers that to be infanticide), and it is capable of lasting 25-30 years.
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