L’Argile AOC 2017

The Cuvée l'Argile represents the characteristic clayey loam soil of the region. The composition consists of Grenache Noir, Syrah, Carignan and Cinsault. The yields are also very low in this cuvée at around 20 hectolitres per hectare. Three quarters of the quantity undergoes a ten-day maceration period. The remaining quarter is pressed directly. The wine is aged in concrete tanks, neutral containers with enamel coating and a few used barrels.

dark cherry-red

The 2017 l'Argile makes a dark but elegant start. The nose is more reminiscent of blackberry and sour cherry. Pickled morello cherries and elderberries. Cooked beetroot contributes an earthy, vegetal component. The garrigue also comes through clearly. And that is so typical of the region. Mediterranean herbs, pine, lavender. Green walnuts and some pistachio leave their traces and are spicily completed by pepper, anise and juniper.  

On the palate, it seems racier and tighter than expected. Once again, Philippe Gimel shows that he has mastered his craft. The dark cuvee from the southern French parade grape varieties presents itself juicy, lean and not even remotely lush. The dark fruits and berries are evident, but the l'Argile comes across as overall more about silky texture and elegance. Alcohol is not an indicator of this, just balance in the wine. With a very delicate tannin, it lives primarily on its juiciness. The acidity sets the pace. Provided with a decent drinking flow and wonderfully stony-mineralic, it has a long after-effect.