2018 Fonbel (St-Emilion)

Always one of the more accessible of the Vauthier range, this is really good in 2018. It`s rich and lyrical, with lovely aromatics and great clarity to the raspberry and redcurrant flavours. It has firm but flexible tannins, and is altogether rather delicious. Touches of spice reveal themselves on the finish. Harvested 24 September to 8 October with a 30hl/ha yield. 30% new oak. Drinking Window 2024 - 2036. 91 points

70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc. This was the only Vauthier property affected by mildew (30% loss). Barrel sample. Black core, purple rim. Smoky black fruit. Dark and just a touch charry. Plenty of fruit, tied up in the thickish tannins. Powerful and chewy and just fresh enough. 16 points

Made up of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Carménère, the deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Fonbel gives up spicy notes of Sichuan pepper, cinnamon stick, cloves and fenugreek with a core of warm red and black cherries, mulberries and fragrant earth. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has wonderful freshness and a soft, creamy texture supporting the vibrant red and black fruit preserves flavors, finishing with a peppery lift. 91-93 points