2014 St. Veran Lieu (Inter) Dit

(from the steep, rocky, south-facing Côte-Rôtie climat in Davayé; these old vines yielded just 15 hectoliters per hectare in 2013 and 18 in 2014; aged entirely in fûts , 25% new): Bright, pale yellow. Pure, subtle aromas of lemon, lime and crushed stone, lifted by an exotic zesty note. Suave, silky and light on its feet, conveying outstanding subtle intensity to its flavors of citrus fruits, spices and flowers. A very refined, slowly building Saint-Véran without any impression of weight, thanks to high (4.6 grams per liter) but perfectly integrated acidity. Very firm and long on the aftertaste. Superb for this cuvée ; this wine really transcends its appellation.

The 2014 Saint-Veran Lieu Inter(Dit), which comes from the Côte Rôtie vineyard that is no longer allowed on the label, was cropped at 25 hectoliters per hectare and matured in 25% new wood. It has a straightforward, honeysuckle and resinous bouquet that opens nicely in the glass, a hint of walnut developing with time. The palate is fresh and quite powerful on the entry. I like the acidic drive here, while there is commendable depth on the orange rind and pear-tinged finish. This should drink well over the next 8-10 years.