‘Domaine de Cristia has come on like gangbusters over the last decade’ – Robert Parker

Was founded by Etienne Grangeon 70 years ago, the property originally comprised 2 hectares of Grenache. The driving force of his son Alain, who joined the domaine in 1963 has propelled the fortunes of the Cristia and expanded into other appellations such as Rasteau and Cairanne. Rich rough hewn wines with plenty of fruit tannin but not massive oak influence. The Ultimo Wine Centre highly recommends Domaine de La Cristia as the perfect mid term proposition in the cellar at a very competitive price.

‘Domaine de Cristia has come on like gangbusters over the last decade, since proprietors Baptiste Grangeon took over from his father in 1999. All of Cristia’s vineyards are in the northeast sector of the appellation, with their sensational 100% Grenache Vieilles Vignes cuvee coming from 70- to 80-year-old vines in sandy soil not far from the Rayas vineyard.’ – Robert Parker – Wine Advocate

It’s hard to fault a Côtes du Rhône that comes from 50 year old vines – wow! 100% Grenache gives this a richness that most Côtes du Rhône lack; a bit of extra oomph that will see this 2008 drinking well over the next few years.

An added bonus is much of the high quality fruit from the Châteauneuf Vieille Vignes and ‘Renaissance’ cuvee’s being blended into the two standard Cuvees; Châteauneuf & Côtes du Rhône. It’s a win-win situation for anyone looking for a great little red that punches well above its weight.