Château de Beaucastel : Roussanne Vieilles Vignes 2021

This is more about subdued power and savory energy than flamboyancy. Offers yellow apple and glazed peach notes that are caressing in feel, with a gentle robe of warm oak and toasted hazelnut. Gains nice balance and energy from grapefruit pithiness. Well-melded and refined, with generous crushed flint elements on the long finish. Drink now through 2028. 100 cases made.

Floral pear notes on the nose, an attractive and lively aromatic display. It has the characteristic generosity on the palate of this cuvée, but with slightly higher acidity than a typical vintage, and a beautifully fresh finish. Harmonious, appealing and enticing, with a touch of spice adding complexity. From a single parcel of Roussanne, planted in 1919 and grown biodynamically. Aged in one-year-old demi-muids and barriques. Maximum of 6,000 bottles per year.

Lemon curd, piercing mineral freshness – wet hay, meadowsweet and Conference pear. The palate has overarching richness, suppleness and an undercurrent of spicy cedar oak. Always balanced by a sense of zestiness. Yes, this needs time – the honey shines through towards the finish – super-concentrated style – fantastic. (AC)

A great vintage for Roussanne, perfectly handled, staying fresh and ripe while letting the terroir speak through great aromatic depth. The palate offers good volume while remaining very airy and digestible. The vintage’s lovely acidity provides the necessary tension.