2020 Lynch-Moussas (Pauillac)

Rich smoky notes, coffee, mocha, raspberry and black cherry, grilled cedar - a little short on the finish. Tasted several times, and the oak is pretty dominant, it struggles to allow enough gaps through the structure to let the fruit out. A yield of 42hl/ha. 60% new oak 91 points

The 2020 Lynch-Moussas is composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Merlot, with an alcohol of 13.5%. It is being aged for 12-14 months in French oak barrels, 60% new. Medium to deep purple-black colored, it gives up notes of crushed blackcurrants, fresh blackberries and Bing cherries, with touches of bay leaves, tree bark and graphite. The medium-bodied palate has well-managed tannins and just enough freshness for the subtle black fruit and dried herbs flavors, taking a slight dip in the mid-palate and finishing a tad abruptly. 87-89 points

Smoky, graphite, dark-fruit and mocha nose. Soft and supple on attack then firm tannic drive. Oak needs to integrate so a little awkward at present but there’s potential. 16 points