2017 Les Hauts du Tertre

The 2017 Les Hauts du Tertre, sporting a new label since the 2015 vintage, represents 30% of the crop from younger vines. It has a clean, nicely defined, slightly herbaceous nose that nevertheless has good vigor, reminiscent of a lovely “old school” Claret. There is nothing wrong with that. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin, tarry black fruit laced with pencil lead, with an easy-drinking finish suggesting that corks should be popped over the next two or three years.

75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc. 20% new oak. 12 months in barrel. Dark greyish crimson. Very Cabernet on the nose – cassis and graphite and a nice dusty character. Savoury dark cassis on the palate, nicely balanced in a lightish weight but with plenty of freshness on the finish. (JH)

The 2017 Les Hauts du Tertre is a flavorful, expressive second wine. Scorched earth, smoke, new leather, licorice and tobacco add nuance to a core of juicy fruit. Soft, open-knit and quite giving, the 2017 will drink beautifully upon release. The blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, it includes a bit less Cabernet Franc than is typical. Production is down 37%.