2019 Cantenac Brown (Margaux)

José Sanfins has overseen a 2019 Cantenac Brown that will give immense pleasure in coming years. The bouquet has tightened up since I tasted the barrel sample (also at the château, in summer 2021): blackberry, raspberry and cedar are now accompanied by just a touch of peppermint. The palate is medium-bodied, taut and fresh, with sappy red fruit, fine acidity and a vibrant, harmonious finish. This Margaux brims with confidence and should give 30 to 40 years of drinking pleasure. The insiders` Margaux of choice. 95 points

A ton of tightly packed black fruits are right there on the attack of this wine, along with enticing aromatic power. It`s a well-muscled Cantenac Brown with a sleek, carefully controlled tannic hold alongside liquorice and black chocolate notes - good stuff. New owner at this property as of 2019, Tristan Le Lous. 60% new oak, with 51% of overall production in the first wine. 94 points