M. Chapoutier : Bila-Haut V.I.T. 2018

Strongly reductive – gives this a drainage/medical type of nose that is difficult to get past. Perhaps teething? (RH)

Looking at the two flagship releases, the 2018 Côtes Du Roussillon Villages Latour De France Visitare Interiore Terrae (VIT) is the more Grenache-dominated wine (60% Grenache and 40% Syrah from the more limestone soils around the village of Latour de France). Destemmed, vinified in concrete, and aged 40% in used demi-muids, it offers a more ruby/purple hue to go with a spicy nose of red and black fruits, loamy soil, dried garrigue, pepper, and assorted floral nuances. Incredibly elegant, silky, and seamless on the palate, it still brings gorgeous fruit and length. Count me impressed. Enjoy this thrilling Roussillon over the coming decade.