Clarendelle St. Émilion

Deliceous

Drinking beautifully now. Aromas (in order) of cocoa/espresso, pencil shavings, cloves, nutmeg, accompanied by black cherries and some currant. Cigar box. Medium+ tannins that are fine-grained Medium body High acid Very good to excellent length Although this wine has the structure to age, I don’t think the fruits will last. Better to drink, and enjoy, now — with food.

Deep ruby core that looks to be medium- on viscosity and produces light staining on the glass. Medium- intensity on the nose, and produces notes of dark jammy fruits, plums, blue berries and subtle undertones of chocolate. On the palate, the wine is dry, grippy tannins, medium+ alcohol, medium + acidity with low complexity. Wine is in its drinking window and I reckon good till 2026, though no incentive to wait that long.

With its licorice and plummy profile, this medium-bodied, Merlot based, early drinker is already quite the charmer.