2016 - d'Armailhac, Pauillac

In 2016 they started aging d’Armailhac for longer and it went from 12 to 15 months. Also, the new oak increased from about 15% to 35%. The 2016 is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. It has a deep garnet color and after a shake or two, it bursts with intense scents of black cherry compote, blueberry pie, and plum preserves, leading to suggestions of Indian spices, violets, and licorice. The medium to full-bodied palate is laden with dense, muscular black fruits, supported by firm, fine-grained tannins and bold freshness, finishing long with impressive purity.

Austere, with fine but firm grip, a salt scrape of tannins, crayon and restrained appellation character, mouthwatering finish, good quality, blueberry, blackberry, tobacco. Tasted recently at the estate also. 40% new oak and at this point they had extended the ageing by two months, as they moved towards today's winemaking methods. Harvest September 26 to October 14. This one needs a carafe.

The 2016 d'Armailhac has a delightful nose, black fruit mixed with cedar and touches of brown spice. Fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied, with firm tannins, grippy, a little tight towards the finish, but there is a sense of energy here. It does not match the bottle 12 months ago, but the potential is here. Tasted blind at the Southwold 10-Year-On tasting.

Tasted blind. First bottle: Spicy purple fruit on the nose. Quite pure and bone dry. With well-managed tannins. Uncompromising but pure in its intent. Second bottle had much more fruit in the middle. (JR)