Rivesaltes, Domaine Sainte Croix 1958

A superb example of its type, the 1958 Sainte Croix has a mahogany colour and a rich, nutty, smoky profile on the nose which layers candied orange peel to layers of cedar and sandalwood. The palate has notes of dried fig and roasted chestnut, brimming with energy and vitality despite its age. There is fine, harmonious acidity tying everything together, with a relatively modest alcohol offering real drinkability too. The sweetness is subsumed by intense, layered flavour. Dried fruits, caramelised nuts and exotic spices linger on a very long finish. Very fine.