Roc Saint Constant 2016

This is a really delicious Minervois and that’s partly thanks to the vintage. Graham Nutter (winemaker and ‘Minervois correspondent’) reports for Jancis Robinson MW that 2016 was “a high-quality, albeit small vintage”. Rainfall the previous winter and throughout the summer was well below average. The result: yields were way down. Fewer grapes, smaller in size means concentrated juice and more flavoursome wines. Roc Saint Constant is crafted from the fruit of noble old vines planted as long ago as 1934. Whole bunch fermentation has accentuated flavours and aromas. Rich, spicy Syrah is supported by raspberry-rich Grenache and peppery Carignan. Smooth, fragrant and well balanced, this is a splendid red for traditional cassoulet or roast lamb.