2020 Echo de Lynch-Bages (Pauillac)

First year in the new cellars, with far more space that allows true plot by plot vinifiation. A true Pauillac depth, and this is one of the better second wines of the vintage in this corner of the Medoc, where the tannins can be fierce. Plump blackberry fruit, cocoa bean and liqourice, excellent quality, serious with classic balance. 3.78ph, 22hl/h yield. 92 points

The 2020 Echo de Lynch-Bages has certainly tightened up since I tasted it from barrel, now more black fruit coming through, graphite and pressed flowers. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins, slightly grainy in texture, quite saline towards the finish, sleek and poised. It will require just a couple of years in bottle. 91 points

Tasted blind. Deep crimson. Pure, fragrant black fruit, slightly leafy in a nice way. Savoury and less fragrant on the mid palate but with an attractive dark restraint. Tannins are refined. Dryish finish. 16 points