2016 Solitude

The 2016 Domaine de la Solitude has an attractive nose of brambly red berry fruit laced with melted tar and tobacco aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, a little compact but harmonious toward the finish, where hints of fresh fig infuse the vivacious red fruit. Excellent.

This is awash with ripe raspberries and boysenberries, dusted in vanilla, as well as blackberry compote. The palate has a very plush and energetic feel and radiates a sense of freshness and balance. Great care has been taken in every step of making this rising star of quality and value. A blend of 55 per cent cabernet sauvignon and 45 per cent merlot. Try from 2022.

The 2016 Rouge has a medium garnet-purple color and floral scents of lavender and white blossoms over a core of raspberries, kirsch and tobacco. Medium-bodied, soft and juicy, it has just enough fruit and an herbal lift on the finish.