Saintayme/Saintem 2022

This is a solid and structured Saintayme, with lots of terracotta and dark fruits on the nose and palate. It's medium- to full-bodied with a fine, chewy tannin backbone and a flavorful finish. Impressive. Pure merlot. Drink after 2028.

The 2022 Saintayme conveys a sense of joy on the nose, with finely delineated vivacious black cherries, wild strawberry and a hint of cola. The medium-bodied palate is well balanced and quite elegant in style, with more black than red fruit, grainy tannins and a touch of white pepper on the finish. It feels malleable in the mouth and will drink slightly earlier than I expected out of barrel.

The 2022 Saintayme is 100% Merlot and has a deep garnet-purple color. It bursts from the glass with bombastic scents of blackberry preserves, juicy black cherries, and chocolate mint, leading to wafts of black pepper, tar, and clove oil. The medium to full-bodied palate is chock-full of exuberant black fruits, supported by ripe, rounded tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with a real skip in its step.

Plenty of depth on the nose here, not easy in a vintage where alcohols run high, that can cut off aromatics and terroir expression. Enjoyable, reserved, great quality, love the limestone scrap, plenty of character, touch of floral notes that underline a rise through the palate. Takes its time. 30% new oak, harvest September 17 to October 3. Tasted twice.