Since 2002, the Roquette family (Quinta do Crasto - Douro) has been associated to the Cazes family (Château Lynch-Bages - Pauillac) to produce great wines that ally the natural and unique characteristics of the Douro to the Cazes family’s experience of making top Bordeaux wines. Roquette & Cazes came into being with the 2006 vintage, and has benefitted since its launch from the expertise acquired with Xisto. Its keeping potential differentiates it from its older sibling. More accessible, it is ready to taste as soon as it is put on the market.

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Jean-Michel&nbsp;Cazes, an emblematic figure of oenology and a pioneer in the wine industry, recently left us, leaving behind an invaluable legacy. His passing marks the end of an era characterized by his expertise, visionary spirit, and passion for wine.&nbsp;
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Born into a family deeply connected to the world of wine, Jean-Michel Cazes was initiated from a young age into the secrets of viticulture. He assumed the leadership of Ch&acirc;teau Lynch-Bages, a prestigious family-owned property located in Pauillac, and embarked on bold reforms that propelled the estate to the pinnacle of the wine industry.&nbsp;
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Under Jean-Michel Cazes' guidance, Lynch-Bages became synonymous with excellence. He successfully combined tradition and innovation by introducing new viticultural practices and modernizing the winemaking facilities. His unwavering commitment to quality earned Ch&acirc;teau Lynch-Bages international recognition and positioned it as one of the great names of Bordeaux.&nbsp;
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Jean-Michel Cazes' influence extended beyond the borders of France. He shared his expertise and passion in wine regions around the world, contributing to the evolution of the international wine industry.&nbsp;
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The passing of Jean-Michel Cazes represents an immense loss for the wine industry and for all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His passion, expertise, and visionary spirit greatly shaped the modern wine landscape. His legacy will endure, and he will forever remain an icon of oenology, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence and innovation in the world of wine.&nbsp;
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We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jean-Michel Cazes.&nbsp;
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The 2015 Xisto, an old-vines field blend released only in certain years, is Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca and Tinta Roriz, all aged for 20 months in French oak. It comes in at 14.5% alcohol. Far too marked by wood just now, this also shows off all of its great potential. Sensual in texture, this concentrated Xisto easily coats the palate and fills the mouth. It shows finesse and balance as well. What it needs at this point is to pull in the wood and acquire complexity. That will only happen with time. While it is balanced enough to drink well right now—it's pretty good!—it needs a couple of years in the cellar to show everything it has. Given the price, you don't want to waste it. Come back around 2023, roughly, for results that might be closer to peak. 

This is lovely and a bargain, as it typically is. This, in theory (assuming the regulatory authorities agreed), could be called a Reserva, but the producer doesn't bother. It rarely disappoints, and the price is nice. So, too, this year (although it is overshadowed by its sibling, the 2015 Xisto this issue). Elegant and beautifully crafted, this has reasonable mid-palate finesse, controlled flavor and moderate tannins for support. It seems serious and approachable at the same time. At the price point, it is a great choice for a house pour or a restaurant wine.