(2017) The Cave Cooperative at Ribeauville is first class, and this series of organic wines are among their best (there's a terrific Riesling in the same range). However the sometimes unexciting Pinot Blanc can sing in Alsace and it does here, soft floral and lightly waxy aromatics, a touch of almond and vanilla, but then pristine fruit on the palate. It is juicy, lemony, but textured with a rolling apple fruit sliced through by its acidity.
(2017) This organically certified wine comes from a small appellation high in the northeast of Spain, close to the French border at the Roussillon, and from an estate that can trace its family ownership back 1000 years. It's mostly Merlot, but with 10% of Piquepoul Noir, the dark skinned variant of the familiar Picpoul variety. Aged in French oak (50% new), it pours a bold purple colour and is instantly expressive with a bright balsamic and cherry nose, lots of lift and fragrance, a touch of basil, a touch of sweet plum. On the palate it has good energy: medium-bodied and with a silkiness, there is good acidity perhaps due to the high altitude vineyards, the bittersweet tartness of plum skins, and a fruity, gently spicy finish. Watch the video for more information and food matching ideas.
