2015 La Dominique (St-Emilion)

The 2015 La Dominique is a blend of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon that was picked between September 18 and October 7 at 38 hectoliters per hectare; 10% went through "vinification intégrale" and then it was matured in 60% new oak. It has a very deep inky color. The bouquet is well-defined but broody at the moment, with blackcurrant, blueberry and even graphite scents, the latter deriving from the Cabernet component of the blend. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin on the entry. This errs towards black rather than red fruit, specifically black cherries and a touch of boysenberry. There is quite a rigid structure packed in behind the fruit, the spicy finish showing just a little more finesse than recent vintages. Although, I feel there is still some way to go in terms of reaching the full potential of the vineyard. 90-92 points

Dense, ripe and full. Dark fruit and spice notes with a touch of creamy oak. Generous fruit on the mid-palate. Powerful and driving on the finish. Good length and tension. Harmonious. 92 points

Good freshness on the nose. Lively. A success in 2015. 16.5 points

Aromatic, attractive and comparatively forward in style, this is not the densest or most structured of Right Bank red, but it’s a delightful, modern blend: perfumed, stylishly oaked and medium bodied with fine tannins and succulent plum and berry fruit. Drink: 2020-28. 93 points

The 201 5 La Dominique is bold, vibrant and full of energy. A host of blue/black fruits, crème de cassis, mocha, violets, licorice, plums, menthol and smoke race out of the glass. Although quite bold, powerful and racy, the 2015 also has more than enough tannic backbone to balance some of the more overt elements. This is a first class effort from La Dominique. 92-95 points