Irresistible ripened plums and opulent dusty blackberries lift the senses, alluring the nose to tertiary notes of delicate florals and intriguing mineral edges. Balance is the defining quality of this wine; even in its youth, 2021 Black Label is resolutely complete from beginning to end. Every element is in place, as dimpled yet silky tannins unfold with grace and finesse, revealing a core of power and depth. Broad strokes of black mulberries, crème de cassis, and juniper accelerate through the mid-palate with captivating width and focus. This thrilling dance culminates in a stunning finish of opulent and elegant dark fruits that persist with each sip, leaving an indelible impression of the near-perfect growing season that shaped the Fortuna Vineyard—full of power and sinue—and Leopoldina Vineyard—full of poise and intention—in the 2021 vintage.
"Stunning stuff, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Black Label offers a full-bodied, deep, majestic style as well as beautiful aromatics of cr me de cassis, violets, flowers, and nicely integrated background oak. It has ultra-fine tannins, flawless balance, and a regal, age-worthy style that has so much to love. It, however, is not going to be for the instant gratification crowd and this actually shut down pretty quickly with air. I would hide bottle for 4-6 years and it s going to cruise over the following two decades in cold cellars."
- 97 Points Jeb Dunnuck
Xavier Vignon Almutia Clair-Obscur Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc is 40% Grenache Noir, 25% Mouvedre, 10% Roussane, 10% Grenache gris, 10% Grenache blanc & 5% Syrah.
Worn in the Middle Ages, an Aumuce was a purple cap that served as a cloak for clergymen as a way of concealing their whiteness, just as the black skin of the grape conceals its white juices. In Latin, this cape is called en Almutia. A blend of black and white grape varieties.
Almutia is the definition of vivacity, liveliness, expressed through the pulp of mainly black grape varieties. The multi-vintage approach has been choosen to bring complexity to the wine.
Pale yellow and translucent with tangy notes of apple and pear on the nose. The palate is lively and ample, revealing aromas of citrus and honeysuckle.
The grapes were harvested early, in mid-August, i.e. one month before the harvest intended for the production of red wines.
The grapes are then destemmed and crushed, then placed in vats for draining followed by settling for severals days to sediment the pigments.
Fermentation in stainless steel tanks
No ageing in wood and no stirring of the lees to maintain the perfect level of acidity.
Pairs best with scallop or lobter risotto, soft cheeses & truffle.