2018 Rol Valentin
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Tasting notes
Tasted blind. Blackish crimson. Masses of bright fruit and not much structure. Blackberry flavour – flattering. But not that concentrated. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Rol Valentin—a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc—gallops out of the glass with upfront scents of baked blackberries, plum preserves and dried mulberries, plus hints of hoisin, black tea and unsmoked cigars. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has plush tannins and a lively backbone framing the dried berry flavors, finishing spicy.
The 2018 Rol Valentin has quite a perfumed bouquet of black cherries, red currant, rose petals and a light estuarine influence; good definition here. The palate is medium-bodied with brisk tannins, quite assertive and citrus-fresh. There is just a touch of herbaceousness, especially toward the finish, although I suspect that will dissipate with time. This is a less opulent Rol Valentin compared to other vintages, and one I suspect will age well in bottle.