2018 de Millery

The 2018 Millery is magnificent. Rich, layered and sumptuous, Millery dazzles from the very first taste. The warm vintage has given this typically reserved Saint-Émilion an extra kick of richness that works so well here. Inky red fruit, blood orange, mint, spice, cedar and new leather are some of the many aromas and flavors that develop in the glass. Silky, perfectly ripe tannins wrap it all together. This is such a sexy Saint-Émilion.

The 2018 de Millery, the small property owned by Figeac's de Manoncourt family, has a tightly wound bouquet with blackberry, soy, light orange rind aromas and hints of lavender in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins, quite dense with good sinew towards the cocoa-tinged finish. This is a fine de Millery that will appeal to those seeking more opulence in their Saint-Émilion compared to its "cousin" Figeac.

Made with consulting advice from the up-and-coming Thomas Duclos (the vineyards are managed by the team at Figeac), the 2018 Château de Millery appears to be a thrilling Saint-Émilion based on 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that’s still resting in 80% new barrels. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by a medium to full-bodied, plump, rounded 2018 that has perfumed notes of wild strawberries, blueberries, blood orange, and violets. It’s exotic, pure, and seamless, and unquestionably a beautiful wine.