Rivesaltes, Domaine la Cresse 1957

It has a lucid amber hue with green tints on the rim. The nose is well-defined with hazelnut, smoke, dried ginger and a touch of Seville orange marmalade. The palate is superb. It is beautifully balanced with dried quince, rhubarb, marmalade and hints of Muscat coming through with aeration. This is long and harmonious with a lovely umami sensation and Szechuan pepper note on the finish. Superb. Tasted December 2012.

About 70% white (Maccabeu, Tourbat, Grenache Gris and Grenache Blanc, some Muscat d'Alexandrie) and 30% Grenache Noir (maybe less?). Terroir of Latour de France, on the way to Maury. Made on a private estate once owned by a founder of Nicolas but the stock was bought by the Estagel co-op.Pale tawny foxy colour. Quite intense nose despite the colour. Very sweet and flattering. Maybe a bit of Muscat but lots of Grenache Gris. Round but definitely aged. Very good balance of sweetness, acidity, and age. 16%