2018 Domaine Elian Da Ros Clos Baquey, Cotes du Marmandais, France

Clos Baquey is the grand cuve from Elian Darosan undeniable statement that the southwest can make ageworthy, inspiring wines. With 2-3 years in bottle it starts to show some round edges, and in 5-6 years begins to hit its prime, drinking well for another decade or more. Elian says he was quite proud when the 2004 Clos Baquey more than held its own at a dinner with a group of famous winemakers who had all brought older vintages of wines. Incidentally, Baquey is the name of the lieu-dit, and the word Baquey is a local dialect word for cowherd.