Bernadotte 2014

The 2014 Bernadotte is dense, plush and inviting. Succulent red stone fruit, pomegranate and expressive floral notes are all fused together in this deep, pliant Haut-Médoc. The 2014 is best cellared for another year or two, as the tannins are a bit firm today and the oak needs to fully integrate. Even so, the 2014 is gorgeous. Drink 2018-2026.

The 2014 Bernadotte has a spicy, more exotic bouquet than its peers with black pepper and touches of fennel infusing the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannin, plenty of black fruit laced with pencil lead and tar, solid but not sinewy, good mass but like the 2014 Cantemerle, it just needs to develop more finesse and personality towards the finish. Give it three or four years. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. 2019 - 2028

Attractive walnut and cassis character married to some spicy oak, and there’s a balance of dry tannins, fresh acidity and a sleek body that’s really classic and harmonious. Hard not to drink now.

The great dominance of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend has given this wine both a fine structure and crisp swathes of black-currant fruit. It is a firm wine at this stage, although the fine fruitiness will become an important part of the taste. The estate is named after one of Napoleon's generals who became King of Sweden. Drink from 2021.