2019 Nenin (Pomerol)

The 2019 Nenin is the first vintage with a wax seal in the bottle, so you have been warned! Apparently the wax is one that does not crumble everywhere. This Pomerol retains the definition and focus that I discerned from barrel, coming across quite energetic with pretty Merlot fruit – raspberry coulis, red currant and hints of black truffle. The palate is medium-bodied with lithe tannins and well-judged acidity, nothing too heavy or dense. A more elegant Nenin compared to previous vintages, with good persistence on the finish. This is well worth seeking out. 14.45% alcohol. 93 points

The layers of fruit come through strongly on the nose. Plum and raspberry richness wrapped up with raspberry leaf and sage, this just gently tiptoes through the palate. Extraction is careful and delicate and yet there is a lot of power. This is always a Left Bank style of Pomerol giving a restrained savoury feel with freshness and classicism. Opens slowly in the glass and needs time over ageing. In the cellar, they cut the extraction time down by half compared to 2018, because the skins were so thick. 40% new oak. 94 points

The 2019 Nenin is a blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, harvested from the 14th of September to the 8th of October. The alcohol weighs in at 14.45% with a pH of 3.59 and an IPT of 75. It is aging in French oak barriques, 45% new. Offering up an opaque purple-black color, aromas of plum preserves, fresh blueberries and boysenberries explode out of the glass, closely followed by a perfume wave of lilacs, star anise, Ceylon tea, eucalyptus and chocolate box. The full-bodied palate is at once rich and sensuous as well as bright and refreshing, with a compelling interplay between spiced, preserved black fruits with lively fresh-berry accents and a racy backbone. The tannins here and wonderfully plush, and it finishes on a lingering anise note. There`s so much going on here and it all works together beautifully—a party in your mouth! 93-95+ points

Dark fruit and floral notes. Fresher than Fugue. Plenty of energy and drive but less overt opulence. Firm and structured on the palate. Almost médocain in presence. 17 points