Rivesaltes 1979 Domaine de la Viguerie

Description

Avis professionnels

Robert Parker (87)

The 1979 Rivesaltes from Domaine de la Viguerie comes from the last foudre from the family before the winery was destroyed to make way for villas after five generations of winemaking. (Insert sad emoji here…) I felt the wine was not quite as clean on the nose as some of the other Rivesaltes that I tasted from Philippe Gayral. It is not unlike a Verdelho with light walnut and smoky scents, perhaps just a little raw compared to others. The palate is better than the aromatics, quite harmonious and understated, elegant in the mouth with a tang of fresh ginger and Seville orange marmalade gently fanning out toward the finish. It just feels a little lightweight compared to others, but it is still a well-crafted Rivesaltes. Tasted June 2017.

Jancis Robinson (18)

Mostly Grenache Noir. Cask sample. To be bottled, in Elne as usual, in July 2017. The last foudre that the fifth generation of this family had to sell (they then closed the cellar to sell for housing). From the other Banyuls (foothills not sea) – high elevation. Made by a burgundy lover.
Bright greenish tawny. Hint of treacle and lots of life. Lively and not too sweet. Great balance. Transparent. Finesse.

BOW (8.25)