2021 Neuks n'Crannies, Côtes Catalanes, Cathartic Wines
Richard Bray is an ex-sommelier, winemaker, author, and now wine merchant - a true all-rounder in the wine industry. Cathartic Wines is Richard's own project, and with a few vintages under-way, has picked up momentum. Neuks n’Crannies (the name a nod to a much-loved region of Scotland, Neuk of Fife) is a delicious, small-batch white made in the cellars of Mas Cristine in the Roussillon. It has existed for just three vintages, with this vibrant and sea-spray scented 2021 as the final edition in the tryptic. It’s made from a blend of Grenache Gris grown by Mas Christine, blended with some Marsanne grown by vanguard Collioure producer, Coum del Mas. The addition of Marsanne, incidentally, sets it apart from the two previous vintages which included Roussanne. This 2021 has a playful phenolic grip, and incisive salty length, and is propelled along by the vintage’s natural freshness. It’s a great final bow for this interesting and creative white.