Château Mourgues du Gres Capitelles

Unfortunately this seemed past its best, not so smooth and loss of fruit. It did calm down after decanting and sitting for an hour; wood and spice dominated but a shadow of what we recall from two years ago. Opened second bottle, definitely need time to open up, dark fruit, plum, vanilla, with a smokey varnished wood layer. With time liquorice seems to be more dominant. Quite well balanced.

Grenache, syrah and carignan from old vines, treated organic. The wine is dark and rich, but not over the top, still maintaining lightness and freshness. Black tea, alcohol, plums on the nose. Palate is full, medium body, lifted acidity, grippy and sweet tannins. Touch of pleasant bitter on the medium plus finish. It is ready now, but will benefit from some time in the cellar.