M. Chapoutier : Bila-Haut V.I.T. 2023

65% Grenache, 35% Syrah. Vines aged 70 years. Clay and calcareous soils and schist. Aged in barrel. V.i.t. stands for visitare interiore terrae, meaning ‘visit the innermost earth’, which is apparently ‘part of the mythological motto in finding the philosopher’s stone’ (referring to Michel Chapoutier’s search for the best terroir and finding this parcel of old vines surrounded by garrigue). Certified organic and biodynamic. Cask sample. Mid purplish crimson. Fragrant with dark-red fruit, raspberry and cranberry, open and inviting. Deliciously fresh and juicy, especially when served slightly cool, concentrated fruit flavours and plenty of freshness with a fine dry tension in the middle of all the fruit. Super-smooth texture with just a slight and nicely dry grip on the finish. Extreme fruit purity and fine balance. Youthfully straightforward at the moment but with potential for greater complexity and refinement. Highly distinctive Roussillon red. (JH)