2007 QUINTESSENCE - Château Pesquié - Côtes du Ventoux FRANCE - RED

Quite dense on the palate, with masses of ripe black fruits, sweet spices, cocoa, kirsch, violets and licorice, with a backbone of soft, sweet tannins and refreshing cherry-like acidity.

The Quintessence is from old vines (40 to 50 years) Castle Pesquié. A blend dominated by Syrah (80%) and supplemented by the Grenache, which undergoes aging for 12 months in oak barrels which 60% is renewed annually. In its new format, highly stylized, this "essence" has a flavour profile and alcohol so hot that I had to check the label to make sure that this was a 2004 not a 2003 . Fifteen percent! Not surprisingly, the aromas of plum and licorice have the warmth and alcohol. No wonder, either, that the mouth is too hot, monolithic, alcoholism and tiresome. Where are the freshness and purity of the wonderful 2000? What may well have pushed the family boiler force the hand at this point? Was it really necessary to produce a wine too little refreshing and digestible in a vintage potentially beneficial? It must be said, nonetheless, after a lengthy stay in the wine decanter is a little more harmony, leaving a glimmer of hope for the future ..

Thanks to Zelas for putting this winery in my scope!

Decanted for few hours. Smooth with dark fruit and bitter nut. Full flavoured with notes of floral sweetness. Long finish. A very nice drink.