2014 Château Lafleur-Gazin, Pomerol

The vines of Lafleur-Gazin lie on the edge of the clay-rich, central plateau of Pomerol, beside two famous neighbours. Châteaux Gazin and La Fleur-Pétrus. The vineyards are managed by Ets. Jean-Pierre Moueix, on behalf of their owner, Madame Delfour-Borderie. There is a relatively high proportion (for Pomerol) of Cabernet Franc – 20% – bringing complexity and vivacity, the other 80% being Merlot. Average age of the vines is more than 30 years, with a fifth to a quarter of the barrels being renewed each year. Like many Pomerol châteaux, this is a small property, with just 21 acres under vines. The colour is striking purple-ruby of good depth, the nose showing rich, ripe fruitiness, very fresh. Palate starts well, with good structure, smooth texture, fine tannins and well-balanced, elegant length (for drinking 2023-2026+).