2013 Clos Fourtet

Soft rose-petal pink, less intensity than the more celebrated vintages but this is also where the impact of the limestone terroir really comes in use, as it gives a subtle and distinct oyster-shell salinity that adds interest and poise. Ready to drink but still very much in its window, this is really a 2013 to look out for, full of pleasure, with soft tannins, raspberry puree fruit, with roses and cold ash coming in waves on the finish. Very pretty, one to allow yourself to be surprised by. 60% new oak. Stephane Derenoncourt and Jean-Claude Berrouet consultants.

The 2013 Clos Fourtet clearly has one of the best aromatic profiles of 2013: clean and pure red cherries dallying with crushed strawberry fruit and dried fig that is a joy. The palate is lively on the entry with a keen line of acidity. There is a pleasant edginess from start to finish and it displays admirable precision if not immense depth on the finish. This is an early-drinking Clos Fourtet, one that is well made by Mathieu Cuvelier and this team. This is recommended.

Subtle, ethereal scent. Likewise, the palate is subtle to the point of transparency. There's a pleasant bite to the tannin but the flavour range is very closed indeed. (RH)