Domaine Peyre Rose Coteaux du Languedoc
  Clos des Cistes 1996

Domaine Peyre Rose Coteaux du Languedoc Clos des Cistes 1996: Syrah 85%, Grenache 15%. These wines have a reputation for tannic strength, but the colour and nose suggests now is the right time for sampling this bottle. A deep, oxblood hue fading a little to a red then pink rim, and showing a mahogany tinged maturity. The nose has great meaty fruit, with animalistic fur and horsehair nuances. Firm, powerful palate on entry, showing restrained fruit but a nice, appropriate texture and moderate acidity. The tannin is there also, from entry onwards, and it really dominates the finish and length. Real mouth-puckering stuff. Will go another five years in the cellar with ease, although I am not sure if those tannins will ever soften. Best with food. 17?+/20 (1/3/04)