Rasteau AOC Les Argiles Bleues 2021 (0.75l)

80% Grenache, 20% Syrah. From old vines, grown on blue marl, harvested over a month until October 8th, and aged for 12 months in a foudre. A profound, dense, dark-fruity nose. Black and red fruit, a dark, earthy spice underlies it, cocoa beans and a touch of dark chocolate, ethereal, cool notes of mint and eucalyptus mingle and bring a sense of freshness. This is a truly beguiling, enchanting nose, full of substance and freshness at the same time. It smells of cool climate, but comes directly from the Rasteau embers. The palate continues in exactly the same vein. Very dense, sweet fruit extract, a velvety-silky mouthfeel, very soft, then the tannins come rushing in with grip. The tannins are present, but not overpowering; the wine is immediately very approachable. Black cherry, blackberry in late summer, underneath an earthy, dark spice. It rushes across the palate with its dark fruitiness, has all the benefits of the warm terroir, but is simply so incredibly fresh and elegant, because the Coulon family knows exactly what they're doing. It's already totally hedonistic and approachable, yet equipped with the structure to last for many years of aging. Pour it into a carafe, and it'll transport you to the south of France for a short break. Or let it age, and in a few years, enjoy its incredible silkiness and charm. It beats an estimated 95% of all Chateauneufs. A great Rhône wine with a wild price-to-enjoyment ratio!