C des Carmes Haut Brion 2020

Bottled after 24 months' élevage, much of which took place in large foudres, the 2020 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion offers up aromas of dark berries, plums and spices complemented by hints of rose petal and licorice. Medium to full-bodied, supple and pillowy, with an ample core of fruit framed by melting tannins, it's a suave and charming blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot.

Just the colour alone is deep and vibrant. Really get finesse, precision and depth, together with low-lying aromatics and juice that flows in across the palate. Peony and violet are met by liquorice, plum and blueberry. The tannins exert a tug backwards towards the close of play but this is a delicious wine that I strongly suggest trying. You could drink this soon, because of the mouthwatering juice, or keep for a good decade. 20% stems, 25% new oak, 75% of large casks, 13 months ageing.

Smells rich with perfumed blackcurrants. Clean and crisp on the palate, a smooth and silky texture but with crunchy and bright, almost sharp fruit - dark cherries, plums and figs edged with a chalky, minerality. Clearly charming, this is succulent, supple and so easy to like with excellent drinkability. Refreshing and totally moreish. 3.6pH. Ageing 30% new oak, 60% foudre (30-50hl), 10% amphoras. 35% whole bunch.