Malartic Lagravière 2014

Very solid, with a core of dark plum, blackberry and fig preserve notes held in check by tarry grip. Ample singed apple wood and cocoa elements form the frame. Give this time to meld fully. Best from 2019 through 2026. 9,167 cases made.

Red fruits black fruits the nose is fresh the start of the palate light. Fuller richer in the middle the fruit feels ripe the tannins fine and although fresher at the back the finish has depth and sweetness. 2026-40

The 2014 Malartic-Lagraviere had quite a high-toned, upfront bouquet with kirsch, crushed strawberry, iodine and iris scents that do not hold back. The palate is rounded on the entry with supple tannin, possesses slightly lower acidity than its peers yet remains balanced. There is impressive depth to this Malartic-Lagravière with a subtle white pepper/sage note towards the finish. Though it will be overshadowed by the 2015, this is a well-crafted Pessac-Léognan with the chutzpah that it showed in barrel. Drink Date 2020-2045

The Château Malartic-Lagravière 2014 is a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot, representing just 42% of the crop. Yields came in at 42 hectoliters per hectare and the wine underwent a 28 cuvaison. Matured in 70% new oak, it has quite a rich bouquet with blackberry and iodine scents, well defined and turning quite floral with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with bold, ripe tannins, good depth of fruit with tarry, structured finish. It is a bold Malartic with a bit of chutzpah, though I suspect that it will mellow and attain more finesse with a few years in bottle.

This already shows beautiful aromas of blackberries, wet earth, stones and spices. Full-bodied yet polished and refined with a lovely fine tannin texture. Shows wonderful finesse.