95POINTS
18/20
Gérard Bertrand Clos d'Ora 2015
Minervois la Liviniere, Minervois, Languedoc, Sud de France, FranceThe Minervois sub-region of La Livinière’s sandstone, limestone, and marl soils has long been recognized as a terroir of great note, and Clos d’Ora is a shining example. The tiny, perfect, nine hectare vineyard sits at an altitude of 220 meters and is cultivated using biodynamic methods. Only live horsepower is employed between the vine rows. The blend of syrah, grenache, mourvèdre, and carignan is macerated by block in separate batches in unlined, thermoregulated concrete vats. The syrah is the backbone of this blend but while it is powerful and complex it has a sense of grace and balance that puts it in the top echelon of fine French wine, while elevating the Languedoc brand worldwide. All fruit comes from biodynamically cultivated vines that thrive in the sunlight and garigue-splashed vineyards of Minervois. Black fruits streaked with subtle licorice, dried herbs, and pepper permeate its dense tannin structure that melts in the mouth. A huge shift in the daytime and nighttime temperatures contribute to its vibrant acidity, the final element in what is a fabulous young wine. Collectors will cellar this for a decade to begin and experiment form there.Tasted: 01 October 2022Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:CDN | $294.99 | 750ml | select private retailers |
Blend: Syrah - Grenache - Mourvèdre - CarignanCSPC: 71647