Rayas remains a traditional Chateauneuf du Pape estate, made from 100% Grenache.
Rayas is a long time proponent of low yields that on average range from 12 to 20 hectoliters per hectare. The grapes are whole bunch pressed and vinified in concrete tanks.
The wine is aged for an average of 16 months before bottling in old French oak barrels. Many of the barrels are almost as old as their vines. The newest barrels are close to 30 years of age.
The production of Chateau Rayas is limited to an average of 1,100 cases per vintage.
Bright ruby. Red berry, cherry and Asian spice aromas are lifted by sexy notes of rose petal and blood orange. Impressively pure and perfumed, with remarkable precision and cut to its concentrated but lively flavors of cherry and black raspberry. The weightless, mineral-driven character of this wine is something else. In a distinctly delicate, feminine style, with superb finishing cut and energy.