2015 Beychevelle (St-Julien)

Sappy and fragrant red fruits, crayon and crushed roses, thoroughly charming and in its drinking window. Mouthwatering, finessed tannins, plenty of grilled cassis fruit, woodsmoke and leather, soft landing on the finish. Harvest September 22 to October 8, 60% new oak for ageing, Philippe Blanc director. 94 points

The 2015 Beychevelle has a fresh blackberry and briary bouquet of impressive delineation and vigour; hints of smoke and pencil shavings emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, wonderful tension and an almost effervescent, nervous finish that leaves a tongue-tingling dash of black pepper in its wake. So much potential here. As I have written before, this is one of Philippe Blanc`s great Beychevelles. Tasted blind at the Southwold 2015 Bordeaux tasting. 94 points

Lots of depth and more complexity of fruit than usual – more layered and better grip. This is a very classy Beychevelle, well up to its fourth-growth status. 92 points

Bright crimson. Aromatic rather than concentrated. Racy and sinewy. Lots of charm and pzazz without being in the least heavy. Bravo! 17 points