2010 Rayas Domaine des Tours Reserve Merlot

Domaine des Tours is a remarkable estate owned by the legendary Emmanuel Reynaud, who also oversees Château Rayas and Château de Fonsalette. Located near Sarrians in Vaucluse, the domaine was established by Emmanuel's uncle, the iconic Jacques Reynaud, and represents the family's commitment to exceptional winemaking outside their famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape holdings. Under Emmanuel's quietly brilliant leadership, the estate produces some of the most sought-after wines in the region, despite their humble appellation status. The domaine maintains an air of mystery and authenticity, eschewing modern marketing and technology in favor of traditional, methodical winemaking approaches that have become increasingly rare in the modern wine world.

Domaine des Tours operates within the Côtes du Rhône and Vin de Pays de Vaucluse appellations, situated in the rolling hills between Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Mont Ventoux. This lesser-known area benefits from a classic Mediterranean climate, with the cooling influence of the Mistral wind and the moderating effect of nearby mountains creating ideal growing conditions. Despite its relatively modest appellation status, the region shares many characteristics with its more famous neighbors, including similar soil compositions and climate patterns. The area's relative obscurity has allowed the Reynaud family to focus on quality and experimentation without the constraints of more prestigious appellations.

The terroir of Domaine des Tours is characterized by its unique sandy soils, reminiscent of those found at Château Rayas, which Emmanuel Reynaud believes is crucial for producing wines of finesse and elegance. The vineyards are planted on gentle slopes with excellent drainage and exposure, primarily featuring old-vine Grenache along with smaller plantings of Syrah, Counoise, and other varieties. The estate practices organic farming without certification, following the same meticulous approach used at Château Rayas. These sandy soils, combined with the high average age of the vines and Emmanuel's patient, traditional winemaking methods, produce wines of remarkable purity and refinement that consistently transcend their humble appellations. The resulting wines show a distinctive combination of power and delicacy, with the Grenache expressing itself with particular grace in this unique terroir.