Definition: Rasteau

Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) designation given to natural sweet white, rosé and mainly red wines produced in the communes of Rasteau, Cairanne and Sablet, in the Vaucluse department on the left bank of the Rhône. They are made mainly from Grenache noir, gris or blanc grape varieties. These wines reach their peak after five to ten years. Smooth and generous, they develop a ripe fruit nose. They should be served chilled, at 13-14°C. Average production is 200 hectolitres.