Another very enjoyable tasting last week, returning to Southern France to Domaine Clavel in Languedoc. Based just north of Montpellier, there is a fine selection of wines from the fabulous appellation of Pic Saint Loup. A family of four all working together in the vineyard – Domaine Clavel is a lovely story for Pierre and Estelle, with their sons Antoine and Martin who look like for all certainty to take over.
Two wines were on show – firstly trying Domaine Clavel – Bonne Pioche 2017. A wine made up with a majority of Syrah, topped with Mourvedre and Grenache. Enjoys 14 months in barrels and concrete wine eggs. This wine starts with aromas of red berries raspberries which are woven together with white pepper, lavender, wild herbs. On the palate this is medium-bodied with lovely overall balance and notable acidity keeping it fresh through the silky finish. It scored pretty well among our tasters with an average score of 7.88 out of 10.
Next up was their iconic Domaine Clavel – Copa Santa 2017. Again made with a majority of Syrah, but this time only with Grenache. Slightly longer in oak barrels – 20 months this time. This wine is rich, pure and layered with notes of black raspberries, crushed violets and damp herbs. This medium to full-bodied beauty has good concentration, fine tannin, and an overriding sense of purity and elegance. A superb wine and quite rightly received an average score of 8.15 out of 10.
