Roc Saint Constant 2021

This is a rich, authentic Minervois – thanks partly to great terroir and partly to a high-quality, low-quantity vintage. Severe April frosts, rare this far south, caused significant damage for many Languedoc vignerons. Thankfully the vines that did survive produced ripe, concentrated fruit and great wines. Vines at Roc Saint Constant date back to 1934, and these veterans naturally produce fewer grapes. Whole bunch fermentation has brought out the lush fruity flavours of the herbal and blackberry-scented Syrah, the spicy, dark Carignan and fleshy Grenache. This is silky, rich and charming – decant (a jug will do fine) half an hour beforehand. A splendid red for traditional cassoulet, roasted vegetable couscous or lamb and ratatouille.