2008 Mas de Daumas Gassac

The 2008 Rouge is a terrific example of a Daumas Gassac in its early maturity. Translucent in the glass, with plenty of energy, the 2008 offers up an intriguing mix of aromatic and flavor nuance. Dried herbs, sweet tobacco, cedar, licorice and mint all lift from the glass so effortlessly. Primary fruit notes have receded, but the 2008 has enough energy to develop well in the cellar for another decade or more. The long finish is persistent, maybe a bit edgy, but also very beautiful.

As we didn't have a review of the 2008 Rouge VDP de l'Herault in the RPWA database, I figured it might be of interest to collectors who are resisting checking in on their own stash at age ten. At 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, it's a pretty typical assemblage. It shows classy pencil shavings, tobacco and cassis on the nose, ample weight on the palate and silky tannins. It remains fresh and long on the finish, a lovely example of Mas de Daumas Gassac, with seemingly plenty of life ahead of it.

This is in their ‘10-year release’ programme and will be available in March 2018 from the Wine Society among others. A contrast with the 2013 and 2012 in that it has really opened up on the nose. Still smells very young with cassis and a light leafy character to the fore, almost more Cabernet Franc than Cabernet Sauvignon. Fresh and smoothly textured with the tannins still quite compact. A way to go but already elegant. and with a lovely dry finish. (JH)