Banyuls, L'Archiviste/Domaines et Terroirs du Sud 1965

The 1965 Banyuls has better definition on the nose than the 1966, with red cherries, aniseed, touches of liquorice and peppermint. Very seductive. The palate is medium-bodied, smooth and viscous with peppermint, allspice and candied red fruit towards the finish. This possesses just the right amount of headiness. Lovely. Drink 2025-2042.

100% Grenache Noir on schist from private cellar that’s well known.Complex and layered with a dry finish. Closer to table wine than the Rivesaltes just tasted. Hint of cough medicine. (JR)

Dark ruby with a brick rim. Some cocoa sensation but not desperately sweet. Round and rich and yet fresh. Good acidity. Lively and very clean – I’m dying to get going on the food matches. Great with chocolate. Some rancio. 17 per cent alcohol