2017 - Beychevelle, Saint-Julien

The 2017 Beychevelle seems to have calmed down on the nose in recent months, far more even-tempered with still gorgeous pure red berry fruit laced with pomegranate and espresso. But now I find more Saint-Julien in my glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins. This feels very cohesive, poised and delineated with a seductive, cassis-tinged finish. Given market prices, I might plump for the 2017 at the moment. Wonderful. Tasted at the Beychevelle vertical at the property.

The 2017 Beychevelle is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it springs from the glass with vivacious notes of black raspberries, boysenberries, and crushed blackcurrants, plus nuances of dark chocolate, anise, and violets. Medium-bodied, the palate is tightly knit with beautiful acidity delivering energy to the red and black fruit layers, supported by a fine-grained texture, finishing long and fragrant.

Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Beychevelle has a fragrant, floral nose with warm cassis, preserved plums and Morello cherries plus earth, herbs and cinnamon touches. Medium-bodied, it has lovely expression with firm, fine grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. The wine was aged for 18 months in French oak, 60% new and 40% second fill. The final blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Fifty-two percent of the production was dedicated to the grand vin, with 240,000 bottles produced.

A vintage that will provide lots of pleasure over the long term but no need to wait to begin enjoying. A soft dip through the mid palate, this doesn't have the intensity of some in the lineup, but delivers sappy fennel and slate texture and freshness, with a gourmet edge of cocoa bean that adds layers to the blueberry and raspberry fruit, and a mouthwatering finish. Harvest September 13 to October 3, 60% new oak for ageing.

Tasted blind. Deep ruby colour. Very floral and fragrant fruit. High toned. Succulent entry, quite polished and fleshy. Full array of fruit and fresh, vibrant acidity. The tannins are fine but firm, offering excellent structure against the fruit. This is approachable and easy to like. (TP)