Domaine de la Tourade Vacqueyras, 2008

I've enjoyed the Tourade Gigondas; it's one of my favorites. This is my first try of a Tourade Vacqueyras.

Medium color, light for Vacqueyras but that may be related to the 2008 vintage which was a bit light and early maturing. Southern Rhone pepperiness is apparent from the first sniff, but it's relatively elegant and blends nicely with red plums, berries and garrigue. Understated but intense. There is more of the same on the palate. Medium bodied, without the aggressive black licorice that comes across in many Vacqueyras wines. Not at all rustic. In fact, it's almost Pinot-like with peppery/berry flavors that tease and linger. I approve and will come back for more Tourade Vacqueyras when the price is right.