Domaine Jones Grenache Noir Vieilles Vignes IGP Cotes Catalanes, 2018

90-year-old Grenache vines are planted on black slate soils near the village of Maury, a short drive south-west of Tuchan. The vineyard has breathtaking views and is overlooked by Quéribus Castle, perched like an eagle’s nest at the top of a crag. A refuge for the Cathars during their persecution, Quéribus was the last bastion in the region to fall to French crusaders in 1255 to become part of the Kingdom of France. The historic spot is where Katie started Domaine Jones, purchasing her first plot of 8,000 vines. Her 2018 is deep in colour; raspberry aromas are nicely complemented by an herbal green leaf edge. On the palate, it is a rich, mouth-filling wine, smooth with flavours of raspberries, cherries and chocolate. It is dense and full-bodied yet supple with lingering appeal.