Gérard Bertrand : Clos d'Ora 2012

The first vintage to be released, the 2012 Minervois la Liviniere Clos d'Ora is still going strong. There's a meaty, savory edge to the nose, adding nuance to the black olive aromas. Full-bodied and more concentrated than the 2013 or 2014, and more harmonious than the 2013, the blackberry, cola and spice flavors come together magnificently on the long, velvety finish.

Cherry preserves, mocha and berry tea flavors fill the core of this full-bodied red. Licorice, leather and orange zest accents gain traction through the smoky, tannic finish. Drink now through 2020. 822 cases made, 100 cases imported.

A complex nose of undergrowth, leather and pencil lead, with some game too. It’s medium-bodied with polished tannins. Mellow and well-rounded with a caressing texture. Harmonious with a very fine texture and a focused finish. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink now.

Already in bottle and very dramatic. Cool, sweet and fresh. Dry finish but lots of dramatic fruit. A little sour and liquorice. Very rich, sweet and open. (JR)

A powerful yet extremely classy wine, clos-d’ora stands out for its very deep black fruit and, above all, the energy of its fleshy, intense palate, supported by ripe, tight and fine tannins. The aging is unshowy yet highly refined, with persistent depth. Built for long cellaring: not a first attempt, already a masterstroke!