Gérard Bertrand : Clos du Temple 2021

A blend of Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Viognier and Mourvèdre, the 2021 Languedoc Cabrières Rosé Clos du Temple was matured for six months in French oak barrels. Evoking aromas of oak, smoke, jasmine, rose petal, gooseberry and spices, it’s tense and fleshy, medium-bodied to full-bodied, lively and rather muscular with a long, fresh finish dominated by oaky notes, which are a little prominent for me at the moment.

Elegant and pure, this brings together floral, wild strawberry and white peach with garrigue and fleur de sel on a seamless palate. Creamy and harmonious, with impressive concentration and good length. Reveals talc-fine mineral notes that bring a pleasing bitter edge. Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Viognier and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2028. 800 cases made, 200 cases imported.

In many ways this vintage is the exact opposite of the 2019, with the smallest percentage of Syrah and Mourvèdre, and is the silkiest of all five vintages. Fresh leafy aromas with hints of mint and dill and creamy white chocolate. On the palate there is fine, tightly grained oak. The fruit has a rich, creamy weight with ripe peaches, dried apricots, a touch of exotic fruit and jasmine, and some saline lavender and mineral notes on the finish. Concentrated and creamy with a fresh leafiness. Cinsault 45%, Grenache 38%, Syrah 7%, Mourvèdre 6%, Viognier 4%.

Pale salmon color with a copper tinge. A serious rosé with a discreet mineral whiff to the fresh vanilla, tangerines, peaches, thyme, spices and fresh flowers. Full-bodied for rosé with a broad structure to it. I love the texture and the creamy, yet fresh mouthfeel, rendering a taut palate with fresh, medium acidity. Flavorful and long. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink now or hold.

Organic and biodynamic certified. Looks like a white wine and tastes as if it's 100% Viognier. Peachy, oily and heavy. Low acidity – you're not going to sip this for refreshment. I'm not sure I get this wine and I most certainly don't get the price (quite aside from the bewildering fact that it is nearly £50 more expensive, same vintage, at Hedonism). The words 'emperor' and 'clothes' come to mind, but maybe I'm just not open to its virtues. (TC)

Inviting pomegranate and white lily aromas pop on the nose of this rosé. The palate is plush with rose petal, raspberry sorbet and vanilla flavors. Beautifully balanced with a generous finish.