AJ | Dark, dense black-red, still opaque at the core. LIght, fragrant, with dry grass and autumn leaf notes to sweeten and open out the gently curranty fruits. As so often this year, fresh and appetising. Lively, light, tangy and fresh. This is not a second wine with much bass support -- but huge efforts have clearly gone into getting the fruit over the finishing line with purity and poised ripeness, and these are the qualities that sing out here. A great choice for a classy mouthful in early youth. Drink Dates: 2027 - 2031. 88
SF | Densely saturated at the core, near opaque. The aromatic recalls something of the garrigue, the Pessac forest, its red fruit tempered by smoke and stones. Cerebral, not overstated. On the palate there is impressive mid-palte weight, a gravitas which outshines both second wine status and the 'reputation' of the vintage. A spirited Esprit, for sure. Drink Dates: 2028 - 2034. 92