2014 Chateau de Lascaux, Carra, Languedoc Pic Saint Loup Rouge, France.
The fabulous 2014 Carra is a blend of 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache that gets a short cold maceration with gentle racking of the must, with 100% de-stemmed grapes, the aged about 14 months in cuve at the all organic Chateau de Lascaux in the heart of the Midi in Languedoc Pic St.-Loup not far from l’ Herault. This area which is at good elevation, framed by an ancient forest of pine and oak has cooling influences, it is very good Syrah terroir with limestone and sloping rocky vineyards that allow for a long growing season making for grapes that get ripe, but have focused structure and slightly lower sugar/alcohol than the warmer flat lands of the lower valleys of the southern Languedoc-Roussillon. The Carra by Chateau Lascaux made by proprietor Jean-Benoit Cavalier comes in at about 14% and shows pretty aromatics, spice and joyous harmony, it is always one of my favorite offerings from Lascaux along with the almost Gewürztraminer like exotic and spicy dry white, both exceptional values and top quality, especially this 2014 Chateau de Lascaux Carra Rouge. The lead in is a nose full of dark flowers, mountain herbs, sticky lavender/garrigue and creme de cassis along with earthy peppercorns which perfectly sets off the palate with black plum, blueberry and loganberry fruits (Syrah in character with good middle and body thanks to the Grenache) with a mix of rosemary, dried celery seed, wild mint, anise and sun-baked tiles. This deeply hued purple/blueish wine has a heady mix of fruity richness and savory balancing elements with refined tannins and verve, this is really good Rhone style wine with plenty of flavor and flare, drink from 2016 to 2021, this Lascaux is bang spot on right out of the gate, imported by Kermit Lynch, be sure to stock up and enjoy it, this one always goes fast.
($20 Est.) 92+ Points, grapelive
