2022 Couhins Blanc

Coming from a cooler clay and limestone terroir, the 2022 Château Couhins checks in as 54% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, all aged 16 months in one-third new barrels, with the balance in once- and twice-used barrels. Its deeper purple hue is followed by a solid nose of cassis and black cherry fruits intermixed with beautiful leafy herbs, flowers, and crushed stone-like minerality. With medium to full-bodied richness, rock-solid concentration, and ripe tannins, this fresher, balanced, nicely proportioned Graves will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and shine over the following 15+

Intense varietal character, with juicy green apple and citrus, excellent lift and grip through the palate, touch of candyfloss sweetness reflects the vintage, but this is impressive and mouthwatering. Ageing is split between 14% new oak, 57% one and two year barrels and 29% in wooden and stainless steel vats. Stéphane Derenoncourt consultant since 2017.

The 2022 Couhins Blanc is superb, especially in the way it balances its brisk, saline character with notable mid-palate depth. White flowers, citrus peel, white pepper, sage and mint are all beautifully delineated. Intensely saline, mineral undertones support the persistent finish. This is commendable.