Vineyards have existed on the Roger Perrin property between Orange and Châteauneuf-du-Pape since the beginning of the 1900's. However, estate bottling only began in 1969 when the Domaine was founded by Roger who took over after his father-in-law's retirement; in 1980, the estate began to sell its wine under its own name: Domaine Roger Perrin. In 1986 Roger died unexpectedly during the harvest, and his son Luc, a teenager who had studied enology and done an apprenticeship at Beaucastel, took over the domaine. Luc Perrin has steadily increased the quality of the vineyards and his wines and is now widely recognized as a rising star in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Domaine Roger Perrin Côtes du Rhône Rouge “Prestige” Vieilles Vignes Could be referred to as "baby Chateauneuf du Pape", as it grapes come from vineyards just outside the famous appellation's borders. Made from 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah and 5% Counoise and Vaccarese, all from old vines (45-year-old minimum) in parcels located close to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Some of the vineyards used were planted by Luc Perrin's great-grandfather. Fruit is hand-harvested using a severe selection proces. Destemming is normally done in about 20-50% of the volume. The wine is made only in good or great years, and has a similar vinification to that of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with a 15-20 day maceration. Bottling takes place in May or June following the harvest. This delicious daily sipper has notes of bright red fruit that lie atop darker, more meaty flavors, with well-integrated tannins and good length. Try this with left overs that taste better the next day, like stews or hearty soups, or with rustic bread and a chunk of sheep's milk cheese.