Located in between Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape, the village of Vacqueyras received Appellation Controllee status in 1990. Domaine Le Couroulu, founded in 1928 and still owned by the Ricard family, is known for producing some of the most full-bodied Vacqueyras and other wines from their 20 hectares of old Grenache and Syrah vines. The estate is named for the Curlew bird, which is known in Provencal dialect as Couroulu: this bird is the signature emblem on the domaine’s labels.

"The 2007 Vacqueyras Cuvee Classique is just that. Kirsch liqueur, roasted Provencal herbs, spice box, licorice, and lavender soar from the glass of this full-bodied, richly fruity wine, which has superb depth, density, and a 30+-second finish. This is an impressively endowed, round, voluptuous style of Vacqueyras, but don’t make the mistake of drinking it all in its exuberant youthfulness, as it will keep for 6-7 years. It is a blend of 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 15% Mourvedre aged in foudres. This is a sensational estate in Vacqueyras owned by Guy Ricard, whose wines have given me enormous pleasure for nearly two decades. The estate owns 40 acres of vineyard and makes two cuvees, both noteworthy."

90+points R. Parker
$24.99 per bottle or $254.90/case $21.24