Domaine La Banate Cotes du Rhone Village Rousset Les Vignes 2018 (Rhone Valley, France)

This 80% Grenache, 20% Syrah red blend and a rose are the only wines that Jean T'Kint makes from his 4 hectare parcel.  T'Kint purchased the Domaine La Banate in 2011 and immediately began hand harvesting the 60 year old vines and farming organically (certified in 2014).  The vineyards are in the village of Rousset-Les-Vignes which is set against the backdrop of the Montagne de la Lance, a mountain range that bleeds into the Pré-Alps. The location of Rousset-Les-Vignes gives its vineyards the dual influence of Mediterranean and Alpine climates. The Mediterranean climate gives the fleshy notes of blackberry, plum and small notes of raspberry associated with touches of cassis, as well as a bit of violet and pepper.  The Alpine climate gives the wine the perfect amount of acidity to balance the fruit.  This is elegant Rhone red needs 20-40 minutes of decanting before drinking.  Food Ideas:  Shepherd’s pie, eggplant & mushroom “meatballs” with smashed potatoes, prime rib, French oni