2003 Domaine de Fondreche Côtes du Ventoux Cuve Nadal

2003 Domaine de Fondreche Côtes du Ventoux Cuve Nadal – France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Côtes du Ventoux (1/28/2005)
Immediately after opening from a cold cellar this has crushed blackberries on the nose, with an undertone of ground espresso coffee and a wiff of alcohol/kirsch. Foreceful palate with spicy, somewhat drying tannins and refreshing acids, supported by black berry fruit, kirsch and ground coffee beans. The label states 14,5% alcohol and this is noticeable, while not interfering with the overall enjoyment of the wine. But it is better served on the cold side. Too young at the moment, this needs to integrate for at least a year in bottle. A nice effort for this rather unheralded AOC. (92 pts.)