2016 Domaine Roche Cairanne

Since the 17th century, the Roche family history has been bound to Cairanne, one of the most notorious villages in the Southern Rhone. Romain Roche is now in charge of perpetuating the family philosophy and their "all in the vineyards" approach to their profession. The grapes for the Cairanne come from a selection of naturally low yielding Grenache (70%) and Syrah (30%) vines between 40 and 105 years of age, within two distinct terroirs. The Grenache grows on the red clays and "Galets" of the Guarrigues plateau, while the Syrah comes from the Marly slopes of "La Montagne" with a northern exposure. Each block is fermented separately with only the Syrah component matured in barrels and demi-muids (600 litres) for a period of 10 months.

Whilst lacking nothing in terms of richness, the 2016 Southern Rhone’s are fresh, succulent and an absolute joy to drink.

Impenetrable black dark purple colour with a bright dark purple hue. Youthful ripe dark raspberry and dark cherry scents intermingle with hints of liquorice and ripe blueberry followed by subtle earthy incense notes and light pepper. Rich and seductive, the palate delivers outstanding concentration and power yet has a feeling of freshness. The mouth is awash with succulent black raspberry and liquorice flavours which overlay traces of black cherries, inky earth elements, incense infusions and spicy pepper. Vibrant acidity, with sturdily built tannins providing some grip to the otherwise opulent mouthfeel. Long finish of juicy dark to black raspberries, dark cherries, liquorice, earthy incense characters and pepper.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 15.5%

Other Reviews….
A blockbuster blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah that was brought up mostly in tank (a small portion of the Syrah saw demi-muid), the 2016 Cairanne offers terrific notes of garrigue, black raspberries, black cherries, underbrush, and incense. Full-bodied, pure and incredibly elegant, with polished tannin, it’s a beautiful Cairanne readers should jump on.
92 points
Jeb Dunnuck - jebdunnuck.com