Grenache noir, king of the grapes at Rasteau, is a vigorous vine which is resistant to wind and drought. It is perfectly suited to the Rasteau terroir and its exposed, dry and rather barren hillsides. When the vines are old they produce heady structured wines with aromas of ripe fruit and spices.

Syrah, originally used for Côtes du Rhône at the north end of the valley, is a more recent arrival at Rasteau. It gives fine complex strongly-coloured wines with notes of black fruit, violet and spices.

Mourvèdre, the legendary Bandol grape, is grown on the Rasteau soils with the best exposure. It produces tannic, highly-structured wines with aromas of undergrowth and candied fruit. It gives blends potency and ageing potential.

Carignan, a traditional variety of the Mediterranean area, demands warmth and is resistant to wind and drought, so it is also well suited to the warm dry soils of Rasteau. With these rather infertile conditions, it gives structured wines with a lovely colour and ageing capacity.

Cinsault gives elegant fruity wines. It is particularly suitable for rosés made by bleeding.

Grenache blanc finds perfect expression on the Rasteau terroir and gives blends fullness and generosity.

Clairette exhales white fruit and floral notes. It provides freshness and liveliness.

Bourboulenc, a late ripener, gives structure and complexity.