Aromas of blackberries, walnuts, dark chocolate, and currants follow through to a medium body, with very fine, soft and polished tannins and a delicious finish. Very attractive now but will improve beautifully. Second wine of Valandraud. Needs four to five years to soften. Better after 2026.

The 2020 Virginie de Valandraud is alluring, just as it was from barrel. Silky and wonderfully deep, the Virginie possesses tremendous depth and textural intensity. Black cherry, plum, leather, licorice, menthol and gravel fill out the layers nicely. This sleek, polished Saint-Emilion is an absolute winner. - AG

Crushed rocks, licorice, black plums, smoke, espresso, truffle and flowers create the nose. The palate is rich, full-bodied, supple and packed with waves of sweet, creamy, black and dark red fruits finishing with a blast of milk chocolate and spice. With length and intensity, it is hard to believe this is a second wine. Drink from 2024-2035.

(WA 91-93 points) Deep purple-black in color, the 2020 Virginie de Valandraud charges out of the gate with bold baked plums, boysenberries and blackberry pie scents, followed by hints of mocha, cedar chest, clove oil and dried Provence herbs. The full-bodied, oak-laced palate is rich and concentrated, the dense black fruits countered by wonderful freshness and plush tannins, finishing long and spicy. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown

Bright and vibrant, tannins are on full show and coat the mouth, but they're fine and plush, not aggressive or too chewy. This has an air of class about it, with its sleek texture, balanced acidity and pulses of energy from start to finish. Charming, in a dark way, as it's still got clear power and concentration. Seductive.

The 2020 Virginie De Valandraud is another total charmer. Black cherries, redcurrants, loamy soils, and tobacco are just some of its nuances, and it's medium-bodied, soft, and forward on the palate, with terrific fruit. Drink bottles over the coming decade or so.