4. Château d’Armailhac, Pauillac (L) “Smells heady, black bramble fruit on the nose, fragrant black cherries, a dusting of clove and cinnamon spice, orange peel - slightly bitter but juicy with a hint of toast too. Quite tight and lean, direct and focussed, this is streamlined - you can feel the cool blue fruit and slightly tense tannin structure, seamless but all held in one line in the centre of the wine. A little strict, but pure, precise and clean. There is lovely clarity to the expression, a silky texture with mouthwatering acidity. Tastes fresh and lively and so clean with that moreish salty and menthol tang that lingers on the tongue. Sleek with a really long finish. Really intense flavours that coat the mouth - cinnamon, clove, redcurrants, cherries, blueberries and blackcurrants. Cola and liquorice lingers on. Sleek and well delivered.” Drink 2025 - 2045 94 pts, Decanter 411909 6 bottle limit $120 5. Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, St-Émilion Grand Cru (L) “The 2021 Beau-Séjour Bécot has realized all the potential it showed from barrel, unfurling in the glass with aromas of wild berries and plums mingled with notions of violets, lilac, forest floor and spices. Medium to full-bodied, deep and pure, with a fleshy core of fruit that’s framed by supple, polished tannins and bright acids, it’s seamless and sensual, concluding with a long, mouthwatering finish. As readers may remember, it was cropped at 35 hectoliters per hectare, delivering a blend based on Merlot with some 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon in a supporting role.” Drink 2026 - 2046 95 pts, Wine Advocate 430304, 450633 6 bottle limit $150 6. Château Beauregard, Pomerol (L) “This fine estate in the heart of Pomerol has produced a richly textured, smoky wine, lifted by acidity. It is balanced while also dense and packed with black fruits and tannins. Drink this ripe wine from 2027. Organic.” Drink 2027 - 2038 94 pts, Wine Enthusiast 450139 6 bottle limit $150
2021 BORDEAUX
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