Delas Côtes-Du-Rhône Saint-Esprit 2022 (France)

Description

Blackberry, Hazelnut, Plum

"Richly fruited and inviting, the bouquet shows dark berry, star anise, game and assorted nut aromas. The palate delivers excellent weight and plump mouthfeel, well-structured by fine-grained tannins, finishing persistent and flavoursome. At its best: now to 2030" Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Nov 2024

Its deep colour has a dark, plum-like hue. The nose is classically Syrah, with berry fruit, violet, liquorice. It has a full, rounded palate with delicate tannins, making it unique in the "Côtes-du-Rhône" category.

Mediterranean with a prevailing "Mistral" wind. This harsh wind - both necessary and beneficial to the vines' development - is caused by the difference between the Southern and Northern Rhône's atmospheric pressures. Highly seasonal rainfall, hot temperatures and abundant sunshine are also the characteristic of this region.

The entire crop is destemmed. Fermentation and maceration take place in closed vats for approximately 15 days. Daily pumping over ensures the proper extraction. Fermentation temperature is controlled, and kept at between 82°F and 86°F (28°C and 30°C). After devatting, pressing and racking, malolactic fermentation is carried out in stainless steel vats.

The wines are kept in vats to preserve fruit aromas. They are racked regularly in order to allow their components to stabilise naturally. This mystery cuvée is bottled after 8 months of ageing.

Food Pairing: "Provençale" style cuisine, stuffed tomatoes and aubergines, mixed grills and barbecues.