2015 Duhart-Milon (Pauillac)

The 2015 Duhart Milon is a blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot picked between September 23 and October 6, the September 17-23 respectively. It will eventually see 40% new oak during its élevage. It has a tightly-wound bouquet with blackberry, bilberry and cassis fruit, moderate complexity, perhaps just a little static at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied with quite supple tannin for the normally obdurate Duhart-Milon, the acidity nicely judged with a pleasing salinity towards the finish. I would just like to see more personality come through by the time of bottling. Otherwise, this is a fine Duhart-Milon that is more compromising than the tannic "beasts" of yesteryear, and it should drink after 5-7 years in bottle. 90-92 points

Fine, firm 73% Cabernet fruit with a brambly middle ripeness from 27% Merlot. Shows polish, depth and a restrained elegance – a firm, classy wine with a fine future. 92 points

Light and mild-mannered on the nose. Sweet palate that could do with a little more freshness. Very dry finish. So unassuming it`s rather underwhelming. Full marks for texture but flavour is a bit dull. 16 points

Refreshingly low in alcohol (as most of the wines from the Lafite stable are in 2015), this is grassy, scented and refined with well integrated 45% new oak, flavours of red and black cherries and bright acidity. Drink: 2020-28. 94 points

The 2015 Duhart-Milon is soft, open-knit and expressive, with gorgeous dark red and purplish fruit pushed forward and pretty spiced notes that add complexity. Medium in body and gracious, the 2015 should drink nicely with minimal cellaring. This is a very pretty, understated Duhart. The blend is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot. 90-92 points