The 2016 Saint-Veran Lieu Inter(Dit) comes mainly from the lieu-dit of “Côte Rôtie” near the village of Davayé plus fruit from old vines in the Terres Noires vineyards. Matured in 25% new oak, it has a powerful and expressive bouquet with plenty of citrus fruit, peach skin and grilled walnut scents that burst from the glass. The palate is well balanced with an irresistible fatness combined with a fine thread of acidity and excellent salinité on the finish. This is a superb Saint-Véran from the Belgian maestro.
As in previous years, this cuvée comes mainly from the plot "Côte Rôtie" in the village of Davayé whose name is forbidden to be used on the label. There are also some grapes from old vines in the "Terres Noires" vineyard. The Terres Noires gives richness and opulence whilst the Côte Rôtie brings tension and minerality to the wine. The yields in both of these two vineyards were tiny in 2016 due to hail. The density of the wine is exceptional as well as the sugar / acid balance. This cuvée was produced only from free run juices and was vinified all in barrels with 25% new oak. The alcoholic fermentation took place until the end of December. The elevage lasted about 7 more months with regular "batonnages". The resultant wine is very mineral and yet very fat and Jean-Marie Guffens believes it to be one of the great successes of the vintage. Total production was only 350 cases of which, as usual, Farr Vintners had the world's biggest allocation. This standout wine has once again greatly exceeded its potential. Spicy, smoky flint, nutmeg and vanilla on the nose are bolstered with notes of lemon and lime, pineapple and even a little blossom. The palate has a rich concentration and deep power of fruit at the core. Ripe citrus and cool stone fruits pair off in harmony, lifted by zingy, fresh acidity that give the creamy weight of fruit a lightness through to the finish. This power is driven through to the finish, which fleshes out with riper peach, clove, nutmeg and vanilla, a light toastiness and the creaminess of lees work. Very long and fine. A knockout once again.
