Esprit de Maucoil Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2016

Description

L’Esprit de Maucoil is the result of high-end grape and barrel selection from this family estate’s oldest vines, and is only produced in exceptional years.

From vines averaging 70 years in age, every one of Chateauneuf-du-Pape’s thirteen permitted varieties is represented here, including Grenache (50%), Syrah (15%), Mourvèdre (12%), Cinsault (8%), Clairette and Bourboulenc (5%). Harvesting is carried out by hand, with individual plots vinified together to form a series of traditional field blends, which are then put into large or small, new or used oak barrels depending on the plots they hail from. Final blending takes place after 18 months, with only the best barrels being used for Esprit, with the final wine going into bottle for a further two years prior to release.

Garnet to brick red in colour, this has the most incredible perfume, savoury woody complexes intermingling with barbecued meats, leather, dried fruits, garrigue and lavender. Supported by a huge structure, firm, drying tannins and a piquant, mouthwatering acidity, this opulent wine combines tangy fruit flavours — cranberry, raspberry and plum skins — with a dazzling array of savoury, herbal and spice notes including dried meats, citrus peel, black tea, thyme and black pepper.

Will cellar for a good 15 years from vintage. Decant for at least two hours prior to consumption and enjoy with a celebratory meal or fine cheese board.