Robert Plageoles, Tres Cantous Vin d'Autan, Gaillac

Interesting dessert wine from a little known region. This wine does not involve botrytis but rather dehydration of the grapes. The balance is excellent with sufficient acidity. Nice evolved aromas on fruity side but with some vibrancy. Close to its peak but not dropping off rapidly.

A glorious oddity from Robert Plageoles; this is essentially botrytis affected Ondenc (a rare grape variety rarely found outside of Gaillac). Burnt, caramelised molten-toffee colour. Bruised, caramelised apples and pears on the nose, but also very tropical on the palate, think lychees, guavas and figs. This is the definition of "sticky" but all the intensely concentrated exotic fruit flavours lift it from becoming too cloying. The finish is rich and the length just goes on. Unique. *****