Although the Brunels only purchased Chateau de la Gardine in 1945, the family have been making wine in the Chateauneuf du Pape region since the 17th century. When founder Gaston Brunel was digging in the soil to expand the estate’s cellar he discovered an ancient bottle which he decided to copy to use for the family’s wines. This iconic and unique design had to be created especially for the family in Italy and is today used for all of their wines.
These days the estate is run by Gaston’s two sons and their wives as well as their grandchildren. In total they work 52 hectares of vines which are mostly planted with black grape varieties as well as looking after a further 20 hectares of woodland which helps maintain biodiversity on the estate.
This lusciously fruit-forward Rasteau is bursting with rich dark berries, winter spice and hints of dried violets thanks to the combination of ripe Grenache and Syrah grapes which are co-fermented and aged in stainless steel and cement tanks. All of the fruit is sourced from 4-60 year old vines growing on the lower slopes of Mont Ventoux where cooling mountain breezes help lock in freshness and elegance. This is a great gastronomic red which will pair well with everything from charcuterie and tomato-based pasta dishes to barbecued meats and hearty stews.