Rich and potent on the nose, fully expressive with ripe red fruits, floral flecks, tobacco, dark chocolate and espresso nuances. Bold yet juicy and refined on the palate, this is smooth with mouthwatering acidity and supple tannins. Ripe blackcurrants, strawberries and black cherries with lashings of dark, savoury elements; liquorice, vanilla and salty crushed stones given lift by menthol freshness. Alive and forward, plump and appealing with lots of energy and focus. Well made, punchy and confident. Great to drink and enjoy today but will continue to age well.

The 2018 le Dragon de Quintus is composed of 75.2% Merlot and 24.8% Cabernet Franc. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it delivers expressive scents of plum preserves, blueberry compote and kirsch, plus suggestions of spice cake, fallen leaves and unsmoked cigars. The palate is full-bodied with bags of black fruit preserves and an earthy undercurrent, framed by soft tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with a spicy kick. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown