The 2016 Domaine La Soumade Rasteau is a standout from a terrific vintage for the region. Domaine La Soumade, established in 1979 by Andre Romero, is one of Rasteau's leading estates, with winemaking now overseen by his son Frederic and consultant Stéphane Derenoncourt. The 2016 Rasteau is typically a blend of 85% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 5% Mourvèdre, offering a full-bodied, dense, and rich profile. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated a similar Rasteau from this vintage highly, noting its wonderful black cherry fruit. 【A rich, full-bodied Southern Rhône blend from a highly-regarded estate and vintage】. Tasting notes reveal an impenetrable black core with a deep, dark red hue. The nose offers pronounced aromas of black raspberry and liquorice over black cherries, scorched earth, subtle herbs de Provence, and pepper. On the palate, it's rich with a chewy mouthfeel, loaded with black cherry and liquorice fruit, overlaying elements of scorched earth and dried herbs, all supported by sturdy tannins and good freshness. It finishes with a burst of black pepper on the long aftertaste. This wine is best suited for near-term drinking, with a cellar potential of 5-6 years from release. 🍴 Food Pairing: This robust Southern Rhône red is an excellent match for hearty dishes. Think beef, lamb, or game. Classic pairings include grilled meats, stews, and strong cheeses. For an Eastern pairing, consider rich braised pork belly or a spicy lamb curry. 🥂 Fit to Event: Ideal for a casual barbecue, a cozy dinner with friends, or a gathering where a crowd-pleasing, full-bodied red is desired. Its approachable nature makes it suitable for various social occasions.