Maury, L'Archiviste 1987

The 1987 Maury L'Archiviste it is a single barrel (demi-muid) of 100% Grenache Noir coming from the co-op, which is known to have kept at least one barrel of every vintage since the mid-seventies. It has a very harmonious bouquet with kirsch, eau-de-vie, menthol and cardamom, nicely defined and not as powerful as you might expect. The palate is rounded and, again, very harmonious with no rough edges. There is a prickle of lemongrass and ginger on the back palate, complemented by fennel, cumin and oregano toward the caressing finish. This is a beautifully crafted Maury courtesy of Philippe Gayral, and it comes highly recommended. Drink 2017-2040.

Deeper, redder colour than the 1988 Rivesaltes because this is 100% Grenache Noir. Fox red. Hint of cheesiness on the nose and tastes very much of the hot climate. Some astringency. Not that sweet but definitely chewy.Drink 2019-2032