This respected estate lies in the southern Rhône Valley, in the village of Rasteau – an area known for producing robust Grenache-driven reds. Established in 1979 by André Roméro, the domaine is reputed for its powerful, expressive wines that reflect both terroir and meticulous winemaking. Since 1996, André’s son Frédéric has been involved, and under his care, the domaine has refined its style while maintaining concentration and depth.
Of their 26 hectares, the majority of plantings are Grenache, complemented by Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, and Cinsault. The average vine age exceeds 50 years in many parcels, particularly in the flagship lieux-dits such as "Les Pounches" and "Les Tréilles." Farming practices lean toward lutte raisonnée, with an increasing emphasis on sustainability and soil health.
In the cellar, fermentation is carried out in temperature-controlled concrete vats with long macerations to extract colour and structure. Aging typically occurs in concrete or large oak foudres for the more classic cuvées, while the prestige bottlings see time in smaller oak barrels to add nuance and polish.
La Soumade is particularly noted for its Rasteau AOC wines, which showcase the appellation’s hallmark blend of ripe fruit, garrigue, and mineral tension.