55% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 15% Mourvedre, 5% Cinsault - Deep black-hued colour. The nose is broad, freighted, has a deep layering of stone fruits, a suggestion of rose hip: you can stand a paddle in this, given its depth. It’s a manly start. The palate shines with its stream of mulberry, damson jam flavour, builds some gasp as it closes, the degree straining at the leash. This is very much sipping wine, with notes of kirsch and eau de vie apparent; not far from Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel Rancio, in effect. It has a tasty flourish before the finish, and its sweetness will find pleased takers. You cannot call this balanced, however. Drinking suggestion from 2022. Tasted in October 2018.