2021 Clos Les Lunelles

A wine that just screams limestone, the 2021 Clos Lunelles has vivid ruby/purple hue as well as brilliant notes of black raspberries, cassis, white flowers, chalky minerality, and graphite. It's medium-bodied, has a layered, ripe mouthfeel, plenty of tannins, and outstanding length. Give it just a few years and enjoy over the following decade. The blend is 80% Merlot and 10% each of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, raised in 50% new barrels.

As I found at en primeur, the 2021 Clos Lunelles displays more complexity and nuance on the nose compared to the preceding Monbousquet—very floral at first, with blackberry and melted tar scents. It shuts down a little with aeration, rather than opening. The palate is medium-bodied, with grainy tannins that frame the concentrated black fruit laced with graphite from the 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. There’s firm grip, but it’s balanced with a slightly minty finish. Fine.

Clos Lunelles is the hidden gem in the Perse portfolio. It is especially fine in 2021. Bright acids and mineral notes drive through a core of red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, mint, spice and blood orange. The 2021 is impeccable.