2016 Le Gay (Pomerol)

The 2016 Le Gay is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc cropped at 27 hectoliters per hectare between 27 September and 14 October, matured in 100% new oak. The nose handles the new oak in stride with very pure, almost Côtes de Nuits-like red cherry and strawberry fruit, a patina of vanilla emanating from the wood. The palate is silky smooth on the entry with black cherry and blueberry fruit, a fine line of acidity, very polished in style with a gentle grip on the finish. Le Gay hit the high spots in the previous two vintages. I am not sure if in 2016 it quite reaches those levels, although it is still a sensual wine that should age with style over the next 15-20 years. 92-94 points

The late Catherine Pere Verge`s sons now run this estate. This has a wonderful depth to the fruit, with coffee grounds balanced by the intense fruit. A little extracted but still very very beautiful. 91 points

In a vintage in which so many wines are flashy, the 2016 Le Gay is sculpted , precise and full of nuance. Inky blue/purplish fruit, lavender, violet and licorice open up nicely, but it is the wine`s translucence and sense of understatement that make it one of the most compellingly delicious Pomerols of the year. Michel Rolland consults. Tasted two times. 93-96 points