2001 Cuvée du Gouverneur, Domaine de la Citadelle, Côtes du Luberon
2001 was a terrific vintage for southern France and this, the tenth vintage of Gouverneur may be one of the finest ever. Deep in colour, the nose is immediately expressive with notes of ripe black and red fruits, prunes and hints of toasted oak. The palate is full and broad with a big initial attack of spiced fruit, wonderful intensity and excellent purity. Christian Ruffinatto, the wine-maker, believes this to be the finest Gouverneur he has ever made. The tannins and acidity are extremely well integrated but quite marked at this early stage, needing time to soften and melt. This shows great potential but will need patience to allow it to reveal its true depths.