2019, Les Perrières, BORDEAUX Supérieur Rouge (Ch. Lafleur)

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Franc, Merlot.

The second vintage of Les Perrières (59% Cabernet Franc, 41% Merlot), made by the same team and vine genetics as Lafleur but on limestone terroir in Fronsac. Bramble black fruits on the nose with tiny hints of dark chocolate, slate and scented violets. Super-juicy on the palate, playful and light in terms of clarity with veins of chalk and minerality. Smooth, pure and well framed with abundant freshness that stays long on the finish. Finely detailed with salinity. Delicious. 95 Georgina Hindle, Decanter. 

This has earthy, graphite-laced cool blue fruits that you wouldn't necessarily associate with a solar vintage like 2019. It says a lot for the deft, skilful winemaking, as this delivers a sense of verticality and lift through the palate, and edges of elderflower and pencil lead delicacy. Gathers in intensity, reflects its limestone soils. Demands attention and patience. From the Guinaudeau family, as with Château Lafleur in Pomerol. 95, Jane Anson.

Drinking Window: 2025 - 2045