Dom Brial Grande Réserve 1959

Wine: Dom Brial Grande Réserve 1959

Winery: Vignobles Dom Brial
Appellation: A.O.C. Rivesaltes Ambré (France)
Varietals: Macabeu, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris
ABV: 16%

Winemaking
Vineyards located on the southern slopes of the Corbières massif, featuring clay-limestone quaternary terraces. The wine was aged in large oak vats (foudres) for 50 years. It was bottled in 2009. 

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Amber-mahogany with orange and reddish highlights; clean and brilliant.

 

Nose: High intensity and replete with detail. It initially reveals a dominance of solera nuances and wine-soaked staves, alongside toasted notes, orange marmalade, dried apricots, and a curious hint of cocoa butter. It requires substantial aeration to breathe and reveal what lies beneath the "corset" of its 50-year aging process in foudres (it was kept open for over a month with its cork). Over time, overripe and macerated fruit emerges (plums, raisins, carob, Turkish figs) with increasing finesse. It evokes an old, slightly honeyed rancio, with notes of creamy "Coca de San Juan" (brioche-style pastry), candied fruit, vanilla, and fine 

pastries. Extremely pleasing.

 

Palate: It delivers a powerful "slap" to the palate driven by a brazen acidity. Concentrated and full-bodied, its intensity initially makes it difficult to parse further details. Around this acidity, notes of citrus (nectarines, grapefruit), vanilla, candied fruit, quince, and acacia honey unfold, complemented by a bitter hint reminiscent of English marmalade. Unctuous, incredibly vibrant, and bold. A true "youngster" despite having more than 50 years behind it. As noted in previous tastings, a subtle alcoholic edge persists, which dresses the ensemble beautifully. Stunning from beginning to end.

 

Personal Score: 95
Tasting Group Score: 95

 

Tasting Notes (2012-04-06)

 

Appearance: Dark mahogany with amber and copper highlights; slightly cloudy with suspended particles.

 

Nose: Powerful and open, featuring a profile unusual for an old Rivesaltes, leaning closer to a Sherry Oloroso. It offers a wide array of nuances: old cask, wine-soaked staves, dried fruits, and fruit compote (orange, plums in liqueur), alongside dried apricots and Málaga raisins. In the background, hints of smoke, fresh vanilla, and creamy undertones flicker in and out. Immensely complex.

 

Palate: Unctuous and possessing a piercing concentration. It saturates the palate with its razor-sharp acidity, showing bitter notes of old wood and spices. A "corset" of oak envelops the whole, dressing a concentrate of bitter marmalades. Exceptionally long finish with a warm alcoholic edge, reminiscent of a great brandy. Essential.

 

Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Score: 96