Gros and Tollot's 2008 Minervois La Ciaude projects impressive depth of fruit; interactive, high-toned complexity of floral, mineral, and savory carnal nuances; along with sheer energy doubtless - as Gros suggests - testifying to the efficacy of both 104-year-old Carignan vines as well as to high active lime and water retention in these soil. If the corresponding Fontanilles evoked meat marrow and shrimp shell reduction, this Ciaude suggests lobster shell reduction in its sense of sweet, subtly saline, and hauntingly mineral savor.
-David Schildknecht, eRobertParker.com #195, 92 points