Andre Romero

The top wine is really singing in 2012. A blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah, the former aged in oval vats, the latter in second-fill barrique, this is immediately engaging, with its nose of Scottish heather and tapenade, and a palate which is concentrated and yet relatively light on its feet, its alcohol level, although by no means immodest, still a little lower than sometimes.
Simon Field MW, Rhône Wine Buyer

Rasteau has a slightly warmer microclimate than some of the other ‘named’ villages, with more clay in its terroir than many. It may or may not be related to these facts that André Romero is seldom disinclined to question received wisdom. In this case he is full of praise for 2012, which is not contentions, but far less complimentary about 2013, which he cites as dilute and disappointing…let’s see if his opinion has changed a year down the line. In any event, in terms of the matter in hand, the 2012s look very promising indeed.

Made from 70 % Grenache, with the balance shared by Syrah and Mourvdre, this is a stunning effort. Liqueur de cassis, kirsch and macerated plums on the palate but the most astonishing feature is the wonderful floral aromatics with violets and even bacon rind reminiscent of a fine Cte Rtie. Old vine Grenache at its very best.
Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer, February 2012

Our pilgrimage to Romeros pre et fils was more difficult than usual this year; there was a route barre sign at one end of the only approach roadfair enough.but then 10 minutes later there was another one at the other end of the same road. The detour was worth it, of course. The unique clay-based terroir is now given more expression as the barriques have been removed, probably at significant expense, and replaced by larger upright foudres, which allow the full aromatic potential of these low-yielding vines full and eloquent expression.