2015 Gros-Tollot ‘La Ciaude’ Rhone Blend

Readers looking for an incredible expression of Carignan need to check out the 2015 Minervois la Ciaude. Incorporating 30% Syrah and 20% Grenache, it offers classic Carignan darker fruits (cassis, plums, raspberries), lots of violet characteristics, medium to full body, ripe tannin and a balanced, beautifully textured style. It needs short-term cellaring, but should keep through 2023.

These latest 2013s from proprietress Anne Gros are some of the strongest wines in the vintage, as well as the greatest wines I’ve tasted from the estate. When I asked Anne what she thought of the vintage, she went to one knee and bowed her head, calling the vintage extraordinary. After tasting the wines, I can understand where she’s coming from. While all of Anne’s wines shine for their elegance and purity, these 2013s have another level of focus, while not skimping on texture or length. Nevertheless, don’t expect over the top richness here and the style is one of purity and sheer elegance over fruit and power. It’s worth noting that this estate is located in the village of Cazelles, which is located on the northern edge of Minervois, in a higher elevation, cooler terroir. There’s roughly 10 growers here and they’re in the process of petitioning to create a new Cru inside the appellation, similar to the Minervois la Liviniere designation. This is a gorgeous, diverse terroir, and Anne is certainly making the most of it. ~ Jeb Dunnuck