By Domaine Fond Croze
Vieilles Vignes Rasteau 2022

Estate
Domaine Fond Croze was established in 1918 by Charles Long. Now in its fourth generation, the estate is managed by brothers Daniel and Bruno Long. Daniel oversees the 70-hectare vineyard, implementing environmentally respectful viticulture practices, while Bruno focuses on enology, crafting wines of excellence and character.

Terroir
Rasteau is one of the Southern Rhone's warmer and more structured crus, known for producing wines with depth and concentration. The vineyards for this cuvee are planted on clay-limestone soils mixed with galets roules, which retain heat and promote full ripening. The old vines, some exceeding 50 years, are naturally low-yielding and produce fruit with greater concentration and complexity. The Mediterranean climate - hot, dry summers moderated by the Mistral wind - ensures healthy grapes and optimal phenolic maturity.

Winemaking
The estate harvests by hand to preserve fruit integrity. Vinification is carried out in concrete to maintain freshness and purity, followed by a combination of concrete and oak aging to add structure without masking the fruit.

Profile
Domaine Fond Croze Vieilles Vignes 2022 has a ruby color with a strong yet controlled profile. The nose opens with ripe black cherry, blackberry, and plum, layered with notes of garrigue, black pepper, licorice, and dried herbs. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, with dense fruit balanced by freshness. The tannins are firm yet polished, leading to a long, savory finish with hints of spice and mineral undertones. This is a classic Rasteau: rich, generous, and structured.

Food Pairing
Pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, such as poultry, lamb, filet mignon, and hearty dishes.

Wine Details
Origin: Rhone Valley, France
Appellation: AOC Rasteau
Varieties: 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre
Vineyard: Approximately 75-year-old vines
Soil: Rich clay-limestone soils covered in large pebbles
Winemaking: Traditional fermentation in concrete tanks
Aging: Aged primarily in concrete with partial aging in oak barrels for 14 months
[Information provided by Serge Dore Selections]

Wine: DOMAINE FOND CROZE Rasteau 'Vielles [sic] Vignes' 2022
Score/Rating: 92
Suggested Drinking Window: 2025 - 2032
Review Date: 08/2025
Tasting Notes: The 2022 Rasteau Vieilles Vignes from Domaine Fond Croze delivers an expressive bouquet of ripe dark berries, dried herbs, leather, violet, and a touch of cocoa. On the palate, it shows impressive balance and structure, with rich layers of black and red fruit supported by firm yet integrated tannins. The finish is broad and enduring, leaving behind echoes of spice and fruit. While already drinking beautifully, it promises even greater depth with another year or two in the cellar.