Marcus Ellis
A blend of 67/17/16% grenache/shiraz/mourvèdre; separate ferments, with extended maceration for some grenache parcels, raised in old puncheons, foudre, ceramic eggs and amphorae. More grenache this year, and a little more heft. That word is inapt, of course, as this is bright-fruited, lithe and energetic, yet there’s a darker red tone to the grenache component. Darkly ripe raspberry, red plums, tart blackberry, black cherry, subdued ferrous notes, white pepper, mace and allspice. Tannins are uber fine, the profile open and engaging, the minor blending components providing a savoury bolster to the finish. 93+ Points: 93/100