The Sesqueille 1874 Vin de Liquor is an extraordinary, time-defying wine "rescued" by Philippe Gayral. It contains around 60-70% Grenache Noir augmented by white grape varieties, but not Macabeu, as Philippe informed me that the family never planted it. I was introduced to the 1874 on the first occasion that I met Philippe back in 2013 and I remain just as entranced. It has an ethereal nose endowed with perfumed scents of kirsch, orange peel, shoe polish, cola and nutmeg that are all beautifully defined. What is amazing is how little oxidation or volatile acidity there is here. The palate is very well-balanced with a rounded texture that lends it a sense of volume and plumpness in the mouth. It is imbued with a fine line of acidity and towards the finish one notices nutmeg, ginger, hints of Hoisin, marmalade and dried quince. It is just so elegant and possesses amazing precision. It will last for decades and provide immense pleasure. Tasted February 2016.- NM