Château du Prieuré des Mourgues, Grande Réserve, St-Chinian, 2014

This is another schist-grown wine based on a core of 75% Syrah, with 20% Grenache and 5% Mourvèdre, given around 14 months in 25% new oak, 50% one year old oak and 25% two year old oak. It has exceptionally satisfying, complex aromas of plush, sweet red fruits with a honeyed, mimosa-like top note, but also a savoury, earthy, tobacco-like gravity. The palate is lushly fruited yet also stony and deep. Fresh acids give the red fruits further brightness and brilliance, accompanied by soft, smooth tannins, and a savoury warmth on the finish. Another remarkable effort for the vintage, and fine value.