Domaine Anne Gros et Jean-Paul Tollot Les Carretals Minervois 2013
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Robert
Parker
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
One of the greatest wine yet from Anne, the incredible 2013 Minervois les Carretals is a blend of Carignan (from vines planted in 1909) and Grenache that's brought up all in French oak. It exhibits thrilling notes of black raspberry, liquid violets, salty minerality and hints of licorice to go with an ultra-pure, elegant, medium to full-bodied feel on the palate. Given the overall purity and quality of the texture, it's hard to resist now, yet I think it will be even better in another year or two, and evolve easily through 2025.
We chose Cazelles for the diversity of its soil, made of limestone, clay and sandstone, for the discovery of 4 main cepages (Carignan, Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault), for the quality and the wide age range of its vines, the privileged environment at the foot of the Black Mountain, its altitude of 220 metres (identical to Vosne- Romanée).
A building was created to grow, receive, make and care for these fine terroir wines. It has been designed with great attention to detail, respecting the energies, the wines and the people... A beautiful architectural structure made of simple but noble materials...terracotta, wood, stainless steel... Roundness is eveywhere... the road, the hills, the tanks, the barrels... the wines.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
Recognized for its concentrated and sultry reds made predominantly of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah, this western Languedoc appellation is also famous for the charming and delicate fortified Vin Doux Naturel called Muscat de St. Jean de Minervois. The dry rosé and white wines of Minervois are also worth seeking out.