2017 Château Puy-Blanquet, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru

Overlooking the Dordogne valley, in a village two miles east of Saint Emilion, this property was particularly successful. Some north-facing vineyards suffered frost damage in April, however the best plots on the plateau were completely spared. A natural selection had taken place. The produce of these plots dominates the blend this year, giving exceptional, dense fruitiness, rich structure, aromatic complexity in the mouth and impressive concentration on the finish. For barrel-ageing, the various lots are being carefully rotated through barrels of different ages, allowing flavour development, with gentle softening of tannins (superb value, for drinking 2020-2026+).