Gerard Bertrand 2018 Chateau L'Hospitalet Red, La Clape, Languedoc

Gerard Bertrand's wines show off the unique character of microclimates throughout the South of France. This wine is sourced from his estate, Chateau l’Hospitalet, nestled in the heart of the rocky massif of La Clape in the Languedoc. The La Clape appellation is a 600 foot high limestone plateau that was once an island in ancient times and is now part of a nature preserve. The limestone rich soils are ideal for Syrah (60%) which is the main grape along with Grenache (30%) and Mourvedre (10%). The cooling effects of the sea and altitude allow the grapes to ripen fully but slowly, retaining excellent balance. Gerard Bertrand farms all of these vineyards biodynamically. The hand-picked grapes receive a long maceration up to 25 days and then aging in oak barrels for 8 months.

Decanter Magazine scored this 95 points saying "Fabulous smoky liquorice, molasses and tar contrast beautifully with lush bright fruit characters; enticing and persistent with a mouthwatering texture and a long, powerful finish."

James Suckling scored this 93 points saying "Black fruit, smoke, bay leaves and black olives on the nose with spicy undertones. Full-bodied, textured and structured, with firm tannins. Rather complex on the palate with a core of black fruit and a savory finish with length. A blend of syrah, grenache and mourvedre. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold."