Rivesaltes, Domaine La Sobilane 1955

The 1955 Rivesaltes is a VdN that I have tasted a couple of times with winemaker Philippe Gayral. It has a similar nose to the one I had before: hazelnut mixed with hints of crème brûlée, less of the marzipan element than previously observed, but with a lovely Amontillado tincture like the 1962. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine bead of acidity that counters the viscous texture: notes of marmalade, quince, allspice, clove and nutmeg – quite complex with strong walnut note towards the persistent finish. This might be even better than I have rated it previously. Tasted with Philippe Gayral. 2018 - 2035

Thick and viscous and layered with baked citrus, cream, spice and honeycomb. There’s a slight earthiness too, yet nothing in the slightest bit dead.