2016 Cairanne AOP Apanage, Rhône, France

Firm, very slightly open scent of more black than red berries with dried vegetal to herbal and slightly tobacco notes, a hint of liquorice and earthy, peppery and animal notes. Ripe, juicy, partly preserved fruit with slightly bitter chocolate and a hint of milky tones, fine, mature, youthful tannins, good substance and sustainability, noticeable alcohol, but also cooling elements, a little dark caramel and coffee, good to very good, slightly compote and alcoholic finish with notes reminiscent of black tea.

Best to drink: Bis 2023+. What our ratings mean