MAURY ‘SOLERA 1928’, Vignerons de Maury. Roussillon, S France (50cl)

Maury is a small town in the dynamic area of the Roussillon, inland from Perpignan

Old Grenache bush vines

One of France’s best co-operatives. Very ripe Grenache grapes are fortified and then aged in small barrels for many years. This is a blend of barrels, but with the oldest section dating back to 1928. The high average age is clear from the taste – reminiscent of fine old Madeira, with toffee sweetness more than balanced by high acidity and an oxidative tanginess

Completely ready now but will sit happily in your cellar for another ten years

“Nutty, figgy and mature, this salty, Sherry-like fortified is salty, developed and subtle, with a deliciously nutty, “rancio” edge from prolonged ageing in old oak casks (part of the blend dates back to 1928). A great wine to put on the table for Christmas. Try it with dried fruits or a plate of salted almonds. One of this month’s Five Wines for National Chocolate Week 93/100′ – www.winegang.com
“Nutty and lively with lots of freshness and rancio and great value. Not that sweet… very transparent though. Dry finish and some treacle but really, really great value” – Jancis Robinson, Financial Times
“Amber nut colour, intense oxidised roasted nut and cream. An utterly delicious, complex, juicy, nutty and creamy wine. Perfect on its own and fantastic with cheese” – Decanter Magazine, January 2007