1942 Rivesaltes

The 1942 Rivesaltes, which was bottled in 2011, has a lucid amber color with a tawny rim. The nose is rounded, and quite sensual, offering over-ripe oranges, chlorophyll, dried honey and quince, opening nicely with aeration in the glass. The palate is an absolute delight. This is extraordinarily well balanced with perfect acidity, very fine focus, the front of the tongue tingling with a dash of white pepper and though there is less fruit than other vintages that I have tasted, it is extremely well focused and has a presence in the mouth. Stunning.