Grenache is the soul of the southern Mediterranean, and here Jon and Elizabeth Bowen give it the spotlight it deserves. Celèstra is crafted from 100% old-vine Grenache Noir, planted in 1968 — vines old enough to have found their feet, sending roots deep into the iron-rich clay soils of the High Corbières.
Intense aromas of ripe blackberries and cassis open first, followed by delicate notes of violets, firm minerality, and a hint of spice. A subtle smokiness adds another layer of complexity, and the whole thing holds together with a poise that belies the warmth of the vintage. The iron-rich clay gives real density to the black fruits, accompanied by floral black cherries and liquorice, and supported by good, structured tannins.
This is Grenache as an expression of place — not a crowd-pleaser, but something more serious and more interesting. Biodynamically farmed, hand-harvested, and made with only natural yeasts and the fewest possible interventions, it carries the unmistakeable fingerprint of this extraordinary corner of southern France.
A wine to linger over.