2018 Château Croizet-Bages

The 2018 Croizet-Bages has a fragrant, well-defined nose with the blackberry and briary notes that I observed from barrel; this is one of the most satisfying aromatics I have encountered from this Pauillac estate. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, plenty of graphite-infused black fruit and a fine bead of acidity. A little dry on the finish but quite persistent. This is a fine Croizet-Bages that should please those whose knees tremble at the thought of "classic" Left Bank Cabernet.

50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot. Mid-deep ruby colour. Slightly mulchy, herbal fruit on the nose. The fruit on the palate is somewhat dilute, allowing crunchy tannins to dry out the finish with a puckering, pithy green spice. Hollow heat lingers. (TP)