L'ORMARINS LITCHI EAU DE VIE 2016

Rich caramel-gold colour. Mellow whiffs of baked apple with tarte tatin spice highlights and just a delicate hint of flowers and macadamia nuts which entice on the nose. The palate is suitably spirituous with apple strudel-, marzipan-, caramel- and baked biscuit-flavours. Pleasant balance and gentle rich praline notes which linger for ages.

Tempting traces of caramel and sweet floral aromas can be found with the more prominent spice, cherry and overt blueberry fruit notes. The trademark cherry flavour and succulence is obvious on the palate entry. Lively, bright and engaging it offers more besides: dark fruitcake and ample spice – cinnamon and nutmeg – alongside an understated oaky nuance. The grape’s signature tannins have been held in check and provide a gentle squeeze and light dryness without overwhelming the structure and body, with is nicely lithe and pliable. A deliciously persistent finish rounds off the tasty mouthful.

Citrus leaf, nectarine and baked artisanal bread aromas mingle with notes of kelp and sea spray. Tangy, zippy and fresh entry with bright pops of lemon, grapefruit and orange zest. The palate is lively and energetic, courtesy of its vivid acidity, with a slight edge of limestone, oyster shell and flint lending a dryness. That brightness then makes way for an ample, richer, altogether more leesy, baked sourdough and yeasty breadth. Harmony of citrus fruit, acid and mature autolytic notes is impeccable and as a consequence, the genteel, elegant power of the wine is restrained and lengthy while clean and crisp.

Aromas of apricot fruit leather, caramel and polished oak with a touch of resin. The palate is rich and spirited with lovely warmth and breadth. Flavours of praline, brûléed sugar or dark caramel are discernible alongside the apricot, dried citrus peel and roasted nuts. Smooth textured and polished, it is refined and cohesive. There’s even a suggestion of ginger preserve. Beautiful integration of oak and spirit which makes the rich flavours linger long.