Haut Simard 2016

The 2016 Haut-Simard has a top-notch bouquet of gorgeous, well-defined blackberry, briar and raspberry aromas that burst from the glass. There is a floral aspect to this Saint-Émilion that the 2016 Simard does not possess. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, fine density and concentration and a very fine line of acidity. The oak (30% new) is seamlessly integrated, with a long tail on the finish. This is the finest Haut-Simard I have tasted. Excellent. (Drink between 2022-2038)

The reductive twist holds red and purple fruit, in fresh and slightly exotic mode, with a plum-compote edge. The palate delivers a linear shape with good persistence and focus on the finish. A blend of 65 per cent merlot and 35 per cent cabernet franc. Try from 2022.