2016 Laurel

I tasted the 2016 Laurel next to the current 2017, as I didn't taste it last time. 2016 was a cooler year than 2017, and I initially felt like the wines from 2016 seemed a little riper than the 2017s, which felt unusually fresh, covered by the baby fat of their youth. But they evolved in the glass, and both vintages showed quite faithful to the character of the year. There is a strong mineral streak in the 2016s, with graphite, diesel, tar and notions of toasted sesame seeds, smoked meats and a mixture of flowers, wild berries and spices, quite aromatic, expressive and open. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and very good freshness in a combination of power and elegance. And the wine became fresher in the glass... 20,000 bottles produced.

The 2016 Laurel is sensational stuff and, in truth, matches several older vintages of the grand vin in quality. A blend of 80% Grenache, 15% Syrah, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 16 months in a mix of oak, concrete, and amphora, this deep purple-colored beauty offers up a fresh, vibrant bouquet of blueberries, crisp plums, violets, and spring flowers. Possessing full-bodied richness, beautiful depth of fruit and richness, and a fresh, elegant style, it’s a brilliant wine that’s going to evolve gracefully for 10-15 years.