Château Paloumey, Haut-Médoc, Cru Bourgeois Supérieur, 2022

Ripe and fresh but more of a cool wet stone saltiness than an overtly juicy and lifted style. Feels a little strict, tense and compact right now, not so expressive but the tannins are well worked, filling with some powdery softeners and gentle liquorice and crushed stone aspects on the finish. Stops a little short. HVE certified. 1% Cabernet Franc completes the blend. 3.66pH. Harvest: Merlot 13 - 22 September, Petit Verdot 17 September, Cabernet Franc 20 September, Cabernet Sauvignon 21 September - 7 October.

Dried herbs with blackcurrant, wild strawberry and soft cedar edges on the nose. Sleek and svelte, this has nice direction and focus from the start. Tannins are soft and supportive giving a taut frame while the acidity and well-defined fruit do most of the talking. Tobacco, clove and aniseed enter on the finish that's also marked by a minty freshness. Feels classic and will be lovely in a year or two.