La Roche Buissière
Organic since 1980, 300 to 450m altitude. No sulphur except at bottling, and even then, very low. So unsurprisingly it’s lightly reductive, but not so much to detract from the wine. Juicy blackberry and loganberry, with juicy acidity and blackberry-hide tannins. A vibrant blast of juicy, authentic berry fruits, and plenty of structure. Not the most refined, but deliciously drinkable. Just super-fresh, lively and grippy berry fruits, really satisfying.
Domaine des Carabiniers
Grenache, Cinsault, Clairette, Syrah. Fairly deep pink but far from dark. Aromatics range across redcurrant and blood orange with a herbal background. Medium-bodied with an assertive feel in the mouth; dry, firm acidity, and plenty of fairly savoury fruit flavour. Medium length. Thoroughly drinkable, very well balanced, a considered and serious wine.
Vilmart et Cie
Disgorged December 2016. 55-year-old vines, family owned since 1890. 10 months in 228l oak barrels, no malo. Subtle nose, white flower and almond. Touch of confit lemon. Fresh, lively, intensely wound and coiled in flavour, but light and drinkable. Distinct mineral seam. Balance, harmony and finesse. Will age beautifully. Deep seated acidity. Saline finish.
Vilmart et Cie
Disgorged June 2017. 45-year-old vines, family owned since 1890. 10 months in 228l oak barrels, no malo. Vanilla-flecked apple compote on the nose, very fresh. A fairly light, direct, precise style, with lovely fresh mineral sheen on the palate. A wine of great elegance and class, stylish, sophisticated, harmonious and satisfying. Very drinkable. Impressive.
Mas de Cynanque
Honeyed and nutty on the nose but with bright freshness. Cheeky touch of toasted hazelnut. Full bodied, low acidity but balanced with minerality and bitterness. Medium length, very well balanced, which is quite a feat. Dry, grippy finish.