2020 Clos du Lican Apalta

Wild herbs with a grilled tarragon note, white pepper and violets to the blue fruit and black cherries. A hint of iodine and seaweed. Concentrated and really refined on the palate with super polished tannins. Ultra-long, fresh and ethereal finish. The fine oak touch highlights the purity of the blue fruit. More dialled-back and elegant than 2019. 100% syrah from Clos du Lican vineyard. 4543 bottles filled. Drink from 2025. (2023)

All Syrah that spent 23 months in new barrels, the 2019 Clos Du Lican is a gorgeous effort that brings solid depth and richness, yet it's the purity and finesse, as well as the quality of the tannins, that really set it apart. Revealing a deeper ruby/purple hue as well as lots of blackberry and mulberry fruits, it has perfectly integrated oak, medium to full body, silky tannins, and just a complex, incredibly impressive bouquet of peppery herbs, sandalwood, violets, and baking spices. Despite solid levels of ripeness (the alcohol is over 15%), it has a terrific sense of freshness, and again, the purity and balance are something to behold. This gorgeous Syrah will evolve for 15+ years. (2022)