Domaine de Ravan�s Grande R�serve Les Gravi�res du Taurou

Lots of lees so decanted and aired for two hours, combining bottles into a magnum decanter. Very deep colour some orange age on rim. Rich bramble fruit and spices on nose - definitely wouldn't spot this as merlot. Strong start of ripe (but not sweet!) fruit on palate, bramble but with hints of plum, layers of taste with vanilla, chocolate and spice/ pepper hints. Ripe but assertive tannins and good acidity. Great with braised loin of pork. A point and …

Sadly, in the 4 years since I last tasted this, it has a made a jump forward age-wise, and is now fully mature and maybe a little beyond that. Tannins are fully resolved, and it lacks some freshness to lift the dark (and substantial) fruit compote. Still a good wine, but not as good as I'd hoped it to be.

Deep purple, with a slightly dusty nose, hints of cocoa powder, plums and herbs. Massive on the palate, with reserved fruit, huge tannins and a long finish. This is "intellectual" Merlot rather than opulent. Could have benefited from more air. Note to self: Decant for at least 3 hours next time.

100% Merlot from old vines - holy moly! Completely opaque crimson-black, fat tears sticking to the glass. The nose is blueberry jam, hicory and dark chocolate. Mouth filling, rich and tongue-coating, with plenty of fruit, bacon and hints of dry thyme and sage. Slightly hot finish (14% alcohol on the label, probably more in reality), with persistent dry tannins. This wine is a beast - not bad for a mere Vin de Pays...