Domaine Saint Sylvestre Rouge 2017 Languedoc

Quite a dark but clear cherry/blood red colour, fading to a narrow rim. Super-complex on the nose, with masses of herb-tinged raspberry and soused cherry fruit aromas, mingled with notes of damp earth, leather, woodsmoke, fine eau de vie and just the merest hint of oak. The palate is surprisingly fresh, vibrant and full of rich, lively, sweet-edged red and black fruit flavours and - even at the advertised 14.5% abv - supremely balanced and elegant, with a backbone of very fine tannins and plenty of cherry kernel acidity. And whilst a touch grippy and peppery/spicy/earthy at such a young age (tasted December 2020), it has real breed, and will age beautifully for a good few years yet. The finish is juicy, fruit-filled, elegant and long, again with a hint of warming eau de vie. This really is a cracking example of cool-climate Languedoc red wine - and another classic in the making.