2016 Pedesclaux

Earth, tobacco and floral aromas. Medium- to full-bodied and polished, showing dark fruit, a vibrant profile and lovely balance. Enjoyable now with aeration, but suitable for further aging. Drink or hold. 10 Years On retrospective.

The years when Pédésclaux was starting to kick up a gear, and at 10 years on it is in its drinking window, showcasing tobacco, leather, blackberry, hawthorn and crayon. Perhaps more open than some, this is enjoyable, has appellation typicity and texture. 60% new oak. Lorenzetti family owners, working with Christophe Congé as managing director, Eric Boissenot winemaking consultant.

The 2016 Pédesclaux has a delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar and pencil box aromas, displaying a tad more mineralité than its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a fine bead of acidity, notes of blackberry and blueberry, and touches of graphite toward the slightly attenuated finish. I am certain this is shutting down, so I will not score it for now. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.