2017 Barons de Rothschild Pauillac Reserve Speciale

The fruit for Domaines Barons de Rothschild’s Réserve Spéciale comes in part from the younger vines at Chx Duhart-Milon and Lafite-Rothschild – adding a very serious side to the modest wine. It benefits from the same expertise as the First Growth estate – something that shines through in the quality here. A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot, aged for 12 months in oak, it has a classy nose combining cassis, smoke, blackberries, black cherries and graphite. On the palate, black fruit and savoury notes are accompanied by liquorice, with chewy and firm but fine tannins, medium body and a fresh, juicy finish. Alcohol is a modest 12.5%. With air or food this is approachable now, but will certainly benefit from softening and filling out in bottle for a couple of years.