Nose
A solar, intense, slightly minty nose which opens on aromas of almond, candied quince, roast coffee and liquorice.
Palate
On the palate, it immediately impresses with its sweetness, power and density, revealing perfectly mature and still somewhat forward tannins. The flavours recall the aromas of the nose, expressing fully ripe fruit, coffee and a touch of resin.
An impression of fullness in the mouth and excellent balance accompany a voluptuous finish, for an untypical vintage which is ready to drink.
Growing Conditions
Average rainfall in January and February was followed by exceptionally mild weather in March. Temperatures 2.5° C higher than normal for the season enabled the vines to bud over a period entirely within the average for the last thirty years, and five days earlier than the average for the Cabernet Sauvignon (29 March).
The drought that began in February continued from April to June, with 37% less rainfall than the average for the last forty years. The conditions continued to favour the vegetation cycle and the first flowers were seen at the end of May, seven days early.
The August heatwave will long remain in the memory, with temperatures rising to as high as 40° C on 4 August. There was also much less rain than normal. Mid-veraison was noted on 29 July, 9 to 13 days earlier than the average.
Hot and dry weather in September as a whole allowed the phenolic compounds to mature slowly and gradually. Although there were some showers in the early part of the month, the crop was harvested in excellent condition.
Harvest
15 to 25 September
Appearance
The wine has a deep and glittering colour, shading to brick at the rim.
