2020 - L'Evangile, Pomerol

The 2020 L'Evangile is composed of 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it is a little closed to start, soon emerging with flamboyant scents of kirsch, crushed blueberries, and fresh plums, giving way to hints of garrigue, star anise, iron ore, roses, and crushed rocks. The full-bodied palate is lively and vibrant with shiny black berry layers accented by bright mineral and spicy sparks and a velvety texture, finishing long and fragrant. A beautifully poised and fantastically expressive L'Evangile - bravo to Juliette on her first vintage!

The 2020 L'Évangile has a riper nose than the Clos l'Eglise: blackberry, wild strawberry and floral notes of rose petal and iris flower. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, well balanced and fleshy, yet there is backbone here. Nicely focused and harmonious toward the finish, this is a lovely Pomerol that should age with style in bottle. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.