2021 Moulin Rouge (Haut Medoc)

The 2021 Château du Moulin Rouge builds on the minty element I observed from barrel and complements that with ample black fruit laced with graphite. The palate is medium-bodied with very supple tannins, quite sweet, though very simple with a light, candied finish. Drink this in the near term.

A touch of grilled oak on the nose, giving a sweet cedar and sandalwood opening, raspbery fruits that need another few turns on the ripeness dial, but this has plenty of finesse and charm. Latest (13th!) generation of owners for the past two years, siblings Lucie Secret and Jeoffrey Ribeiro. Hand harvested.

The 2021 Château du Moulin Rouge has a slightly musky nose that resolves in the glass, light minty aromas percolating through the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red fruit and quite cohesive, leading to a smooth, mocha-tinged finish. Fine.