2016 Grand-Puy Ducasse (Pauillac)

The 2016 Grand-Puy-Ducasse follows up the 2015 with a 2016 that is equally good, marking--one hopes--a change in direction for this Pauillac estate that frustratingly under-performed in the past. This has a very attractive bouquet with pure blackberry and raspberry coulis aromas, just that hint of pencil lead leading you towards Pauillac. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, plenty of sappy black fruit and a hint of tar and graphite towards the persistent finish. This is an excellent "G.P.D" that should give a couple decades of drinking pleasure. 91-93 points

A big vintage of Grand-Puy Ducasse, continuing the ambition shown over recent vintages. The coffee bean aromatics are perfectly judged to give an appealing hint of oak, alongside cedar notes and dark cassis fruits. There is an austerity to the opening beats of the wine, and the tannins make their presence felt right the way through. Overall this is excellent. It is unusual to have such good yields, close to 50hl/ha, with equally good quality. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. 93 points

The 2016 Grand Puy Ducasse is bold, racy and juicy. Super-ripe dark cherry, plum, espresso, licorice and sweet oak give the wine its unctuous, flamboyant personality. Forward and exotic as it is, the Grand Puy Ducasse is nevertheless very nicely done. Readers should expect an opulent Pauillac, the wine`s midweight structure notwithstanding. Tasted two times. 87-90 points