A blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, mostly aged in vat, the 2018 Vacqueyras Chateau Mazane boasts a silky, expansive feel in the mouth. It's full-bodied and fleshy, showing ripe plum and black cherry fruit tinged with hints of espresso, roasted meat and dark chocolate. Supple and concentrated, it may be consumed any time over the next 5–6 years.

Unlike the 2015, the 2016 Vacqueyras Chateau Mazane skirts the very edge of over-ripeness. It does show lovely floral garrigue notes, but the fruit is also plummy and, at times, veers into the realm of warm chocolate fudge. Full-bodied and richly concentrated, I'd still opt to drink this over the near term.

The 2015 Vacqueyras Chateau Mazane, a blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre, was matured mostly in vat and boasts layers of elegant yet super ripe fruit and a dusting of ground cinnamon and cracked pepper. It's full-bodied and creamy in texture on the palate, ending with some tough, chewy tannins and a touch of warmth. Drink it over the next 5 years.

The 2014 Vacqueyras Chateau Mazane is a new cuvée from this team that comes all from a newly purchased vineyards (i.e. all estate and not nego?iant). It is more focused and elegant compared to the softer, more rounded and forward Grand Garrigue release. Showing lots of sweet red currants, dried flowers and toasted spice aromas and flavors, drink this medium-bodied, lively and nicely balanced Vacqueyras over the coming 5-6 years.

Shows good intensity, with dark plum and fig paste flavors lined with a racy graphite edge and backed by lots of singed wood spice and anise details. A buried bramble note adds energy. Drink now through 2020. 101 cases imported.??–JM??Region: France / Southern Rh?ne / Vacqueyras Select to Add