A discreet touch of wood spice adds aromatic breadth to the very fresh, earthy and reserved red berry fruit nose that also offers up a suggestion of the sauvage that carries over to the rich, powerful and admirably concentrated big-bodied flavors that culminate in an impressively long, energetic and youthfully austere finish. This is a big and muscular but not rustic example that will require plenty of cellar time, in fact so much so that I have extended my expected drinking window as a result.

(NM91-93 points) Tasted out of barrel at the Domaine. There is a slight saline tang on the nose, with dark berried fruit and a touch of bergamot. Nice lift and expression – just blossoms in the glass with scents of violet. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain of acidity, tenses up towards the tannic finish with great structure and sense of symmetry. Needs 4-5 years to show its true colours.

Muscular and rigid, exhibiting a well of black cherry, currant and spice flavors, this red gains in both freshness and elegance from attack to finish. Shuts down in the end, with strong tannins and a tactile sensation. Be patient. Best from 2017 through 2035. 135 cases imported. –BS