The 2020 Grand-Corbin-Despagne is a Bordeaux blend hailing from the Saint-Émilion sub-region of Bordeaux, France. With a composition of 75% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, this red wine showcases a formidable 15% ABV. The estate, which began organic practices in 2004 and is currently in its second year of conversion to biodynamics, is situated on sandy soils over blue clay near the border of Pomerol.
The wine has garnered impressive reviews from notable critics. Antonio Galloni of Vinous awarded it a standout score of 95, describing it as "fabulous" with "off the charts richness and tons of intensity." He highlights its "rich, dark, and ample" qualities with flavors of "blackberry jam, crème de cassis, cloves, lavender, and chocolate," calling it "beautifully done in every way."
James Suckling also gave a high score of 94, noting the wine's "solid core of fruit, fresh herbs, walnuts, and hazelnuts." He praises its "medium to full body with layers of tannins and a juicy finish," suggesting cellaring for "three to four years to soften and come together."
Jeb Dunnuck mirrored Suckling’s score and commended the wine's "perfumed, exotic bouquet of red, blue, and black fruits" along with "spicy oak, flowery incense, and sandalwood." He describes it as "beautifully complex, medium to full-bodied, layered, and elegant," asserting that it will benefit from short-term bottle age and has the potential to keep for over two decades.
Jeff Leve from The Wine Cellar Insider, who also rated it 94, emphasized its complex aromatics including "flowers, licorice, cherries, plums, spice, bay leaves, and sage." He notes its "gorgeous vibrancy and purity in the sweet, ripe, red fruits that linger" and calls it "clearly one of the best vintages of Chateau Grand Corbin-Despagne ever produced."
Other reviewers like Decanter, Jane Anson, and The Wine Independent praised the wine for its concentration, freshness, and balance. Notably, The Wine Independent's review highlighted its "rich and seductive" palate with "velvety tannins and just enough freshness," giving it a score of 95.
Overall, the 2020 Grand-Corbin-Despagne is celebrated for its complexity, richness, and aging potential, making it a distinguished vintage from this improving estate.