Olivier Coste, Carignan Noir Je t’aime 2020

(2022) From their vineyards in Pézenas, Olivier Coste produces a range of wines with very contemporary names and labels, but really quite classic composition. This is 100% Carignan, grown on limestone and clay with temperature controlled fermentation and ageing only in concrete vats. I thought this wine suited being lightly chilled, which enhanced its fruitiness, accentuating the raspberry and blackberry quality on the nose, which also shows some spices and smokiness, and gives a refreshing clarity on the palate. The tannins are fairly robust which, along with acidity and plenty of oomph from the 14% alcohol and concentrated character, makes for a big mouthful of wine that certainly needs food to show at its best.

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