2021 Domaine de Trevallon Alpilles Rouge

Formed in the early 1970's, with the first vintage 1976, Domaine de Trevallon have become one of the most famous and respected properties in Southern France. After graduating his architecture degree, Eloi Durrbach set south aiming to make natural wines with a sense of place and ability to age with ease. Planting now comprises 15 hectares of red grapes, equal parts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, plus 2 hectares of Marsanne and Roussanne. All grapes have been grown and treated organically since their planting.

Alpilles Rouge is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Syrah, aged for 24 months in old foudre and barrels with a minimum amount of racking during this time. The grapes are not destemmed, and vinification occurs with natural yeasts and no sulphur. While this wine is generally opulent and indulgent in its youth, it famously rewards time in the cellar, beautifully evolving slowly over decades.

Other Reviews....
From a marginally cooler, damper year, the Syrah and Cabernet are already beginning to meld together. Tightly youthful and closed, this needs either advance decanting or be allowed to age for a few years. Fresh, vibrant notes of blue flowers and dark berry fruit on the nose opens out to concentrated, ripe blackberries, the vibrant kick of sloes and powerful, bitter black chocolate tannins, finishing with aromatic notes of black pepper and sweet allspice. Drink 2025-2045.
93 points
Elizabeth Gabay MW - Decanter