The 2017 Saintayme was picked between 29 September and 9 October, matured in 30% new oak. It has a well defined, cranberry and blackberry scented nose, very natural and elegant, the oak neatly intertwined with the fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rustic tannin, but very well balanced and surfeit with charm. You could almost run away and drink this already! But for now, we should wait until at least Denis Durantou has bottled it. 89-91 points

This is good quality wine from Denis Durantou, but not generous - we are again on the more austere side of 2017 here. It needs some time to open and to show itself, taking a classical, intellectual approach and showing that even 100% Merlot can have walls. The fruit has a classical sway, with firm tannins that have a lovely sense of upward motion. Picked between 26 September and 6 October. The wine is matured in one-year-old barrels. 47,000 bottles produced. 89 points

100% Merlot, picked 26 September to 6 October. Second-fill barrels. Deep purplish crimson. Gorgeous spicy dark-fruited nose. Savoury and a little austere in fruit on the palate but finely textured. The tannins a touch dry on the finish. 15.5 points

Made of 100% Merlot, the deep garnet-purple colored 2017 Saintayme gives gorgeous black cherries, crushed blackberries and cinnamon stick notes with hints of rose hips and lavender. The palate is medium-bodied with great elegance and freshness, textured with soft tannins and finishing perfumed. 87-89 points