2015 Château La Grave-a-Pomerol

The La Grave is a muscular, authoritative Pomerol. Here the flavors are dark and intense, while the wine's vertical sense of structure adds to an impression of brooding, virile power. Black cherry, lavender, menthol, scorched earth and grilled herb inflections, along with potent tannins, give La Grave its distinctly baritone voice. I would prefer to cellar the 2015 for at least a few years and see what develops.

A blend of 91% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc, the 2015 La Grave a Pomerol has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and gives up notions of fresh black raspberries, crushed black and red currants and pencil lead with touches of garrigue and dusty soil. Medium to full-bodied with plenty of vibrant, juicy red and black berry layers, it has a chewy frame and a good long, lively finish.

The 2015 Château La Grave has a straightforward and slightly meaty bouquet, with touches of pencil shaving developing in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied, but there is a nagging greenness here, and the wood tannins obfuscate the finish.