M. Chapoutier : Bila-Haut V.I.T. 2021

Looking at the two flagship releases, the 2021 Côtes du Roussillon Villages Latour de France Visitare Interiore Terrae comes from more clay and limestone soils and is based on 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah that spent 22 months in concrete tanks and demi-muids. It has a terrific nose of black raspberries, wild strawberries, peppery garrigue, and leather, and it reminds me of a great Châteauneuf-du-Pape. With medium- to full-bodied richness, a pure, layered mouthfeel, and soft tannins, it's a brilliant 2021 that's as good as anything in the vintage.