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f we look at the half empty glass - or tank -, frustration, and even sadness, will overwhelm us : historically small yields in France. The lowest of the post-war years. Cellars are empty. Clearly, one has to state that climate hazards, methodically, worked against us this year, in a succession of definitely adverse events : an abnormally cool spring caused frost, then grape shatter, on all of Rhone cépages, and, more particularly, Grenache. This cruel Spring followed up on a dauntingly dry summer… In the end, the yields in juice are tragically affected. The Wine grower’s job becomes tightrope walker’s job… without a net. These realities being called to mind, if we now look at the half full glass - and it is our nature to be optimistic -, the words which will come to me are relief, and even… enthusiasm ! These very challenging conditions indeed gave birth to first juices of so brilliant a Quality as they do better than just console us : they succeed in enticing, the Vignerons and us… !
The vines had naturally little load : they reacted magnificently to the extreme conditions of the year. The plant was able to bring its fruit to maturity, without big constraint, in an optimal way. The Wines promise to be splendidly well-balanced !
Landonne, Lancement, Chavaroche
Ageing12 months in new and one old barrels.
Then 12 months in foudre.
Tronçais – Allier
100% not destemmed
Extreme ripeness, phenomenal concentrations. And, yet, no imbalance, but, on the contrary, a distinct nobility... Future superlative Classic !
13
CépagesSerine, Syrah : 100 %
A blend of three Côte Brune terroirs, La Landonne, Lancement and Chavaroche, that spends 12 months in new and year-old barrels, then a further year in foudre. Gorgeous smoky black olive and charred rosemary nose. Not super concentrated, but so drinkable, dynamic and complex, with an intense lifted freshness, vibrant acid line and fine-grained tannins.
Decanter
, 96/100
, 2019-04-17
Deep, bright-hued violet. Vibrant blackberry, cherry, incense and smoky mineral aromas are complemented by an exotic spice accent. Offers palate-staining black/blue fruit liqueur flavors that show excellent depth. Hints of star anise and olive paste build in the glass. Sweet, spicy and seamless on the long, incisive finish, which echoes the blue fruit note and is given framework by sneaky, harmonious tannins. (33% whole clusters)
Josh Raynolds
Vinous
, 92-93/100
, 2019-08-01
La Revue du Vin de France
, 17,5/201
, 2019-08-31
Deep crimson. This cask sample is a little tired on the nose unfortunately. Charming round fruit that is – like the Crozes – sweeter and softer than usual. The tannins are relatively light although there’s enough acidity. Atypical for the appellation.
Jancis Robinson
, 16/20
, 2019-10-22
Vivacious, with vivid plum, cassis and anise notes racing through, flecked by mouthwatering tapenade and bay leaf accents. Reveals a floral lift in the background and a bolt of iron on the finish.
James Molesworth
Wine Spectator
, 96/100
, 2020-06-10