Vacqueyras

Welcome to Va-kay-ras, a name that perfectly describes the landscape you see before you. In the local dialect, Va-kay-ras translates to the 'Valley of Stones,' a reference to the rocky, alluvial soil that characterizes this part…

We are standing near the banks of the Oh-vez River, a vital artery for the vineyards of Va-kay-ras. In a region that can reach extreme temperatures during the summer months, the river acts as a natural air conditioner. …

To truly appreciate the name 'Valley of Stones,' one must step into the vineyards themselves. The soil here is a fascinating mix of ancient geological deposits. …

The wines of Va-kay-ras are governed by some of the most specific blending laws in the Southern Rhone. For a red wine to carry the Va-kay-ras name, it must be a blend, and it must contain at least fifty percent Gran-ash. …

A significant part of the wine culture in Va-kay-ras revolves around the cooperative model, best exemplified by the Cave-de-Va-kay-ras. This institution carries wines from over thirty different domains, acting as a central hub…

The wines of Va-kay-ras offer a fascinating sensory journey. On the nose, a young bottle will often explode with fresh red berries—think black raspberry and cherry—accompanied by a distinct peppery spice. …

As our exploration of Va-kay-ras comes to an end, we are left with the image of a 'Valley of Stones' that produces wines of unexpected elegance and freshness. This village may not have the towering ruins of Shat-oh-nuf or the…