2017 Clos Les Lunelles

There was no frost in the vineyard in 2017, due to its elevation. Composed of 80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Clos les Lunelles is deep garnet-purple in color and sails out the glass with notions of warm plums, blueberry pie and mulberries plus hints of charcuterie, bouquet garni and charcoal. Medium-bodied, the palate has fantastic freshness with vibrant, crunchy black and blue fruits coating the mouth, finishing with a pleasant bit of chewiness.

The 2017 Clos Lunelles offers scents of raspberry coulis, wild strawberry, crushed violets and blood orange on the nose: intense but nicely defined, if just a little monotone in its youth. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins. Tightly packed black fruit laced with iodine and subtle seaweed notes lead to a saline finish that needs more persistence. Fine.

Tasting like a beautiful Saint-Emilion, the 2017 Clos Lunelles comes all from limestone soils of the Castillon region and is 80% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in 50% new French oak. Black cherries, currants, salty minerality, and hints of chocolate all emerge from the glass, and it's medium to full-bodied, has beautiful fruit, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's one sexy, ripe, polished Cotes Castillon that will evolve for over a decade.