1970 Rivesaltes Ambre, Vin Doux Naturel, Domaine de Rancy
Critics reviews
David Schildknecht - 30/06/2011
About this WINE
Domaine de Rancy
Rivesaltes
Rivesaltes is a town located to the north of Pérpignan in the south-west corner of the Languedoc. It lends its name to two large appellations, one called simply Rivesaltes, the other, Muscat de Rivesaltes. Both are rather deceptively classified as Vins Doux Naturels, despite being fortified by arresting fermentation, making them therefore technically not 'Naturels'. Made from Muscat of Alexandria or Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, the wines are surprisingly varied in temperament, much of which can be attributed to differing ageing regimes. The best will share a grapey freshness, with a richness and complexity derived from the mutage and extended ageing.
Other Varieties
There are over 200 different grape varieties used in modern wine making (from a total of over 1000). Most lesser known blends and varieties are traditional to specific parts of the world.
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Description
The Rancy 1970 Rivesaltes Ambre is among the most haunting and rarified, yet paradoxically among the most succulent and fruit-filled examples of Jean-Hubert Verdaguer's father's artistry that I have tasted. The secret here lies in the wine's inhabiting these two parallel and equally compelling universes. Smoldering autumn leaves, Burley tobacco, peat and toasted hickory lend a dark, decadent cast while high-toned suggestions of distilled fruit essences exert ethereal fascination. At the same time, plum preserves, sultana, and caramel lend already multi-layered senses of sweetness to a wine that is lusciously full of sap. Saliva-inducing salinity and fruit pit piquancy perfectly compliment the sweetness and ensure that the long finish encourages return sips. This profound success will be virtually ageless, subject only to the vicissitudes of cork.
David Schildknecht - 30/06/2011
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