2015 Valandraud Virginie De Valandraud

The 2015 Virginie de Valandraud is a gorgeous, fleshy second wine endowed with real character. Black cherry, smoke, mocha, chocolate and licorice are nicely delineated in the glass. The 2015 needs at least a year or two in bottle to be at its best, as the tannins are a bit forbidding, especially for a second wine meant to be enjoyed in its youth. There is quite a bit to look forward to, once the wine comes together a bit more fully.

Medium garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Virginie de Valandraud offers up red cherries and mulberries on the nose with florals and earth hints plus a touch of cinnamon. The medium to full-bodied palate is velvety and seductive with lovely expression and depth, finishing perfumed.

The 2015 Virginie De Valandraud is a gem made from 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, brought up all in new barrels. This beauty is loaded with notions of ripe black raspberries, cassis, and toasty oak, and hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, sweet tannin, and a great finish. It’s not the most intellectual wine, yet ticks all the right hedonistic pleasure boxes and is perfect for drinking over the coming 10-15 years.