2020 Potensac (Medoc)

Raspberry and blueberry fruits, a little soft on the finish but with juice, balance and charm. Easy early to medium term drinking over the next three to eight years. 3.59pH, harvest from September 15, yields 35hl/ha. The vineyard at Potensac is undergoing serious revision, with around 20ha pulled up because it was not delivering at the level they hope to see in the wines (owned by the same team as at Léoville-Las Cases). 89 points

The 2020 Potensac was picked September 14–30 and matured in 20% new oak. It has a clean, pure black currant and blueberry nose, a little more opulent than usual, but well defined and demonstrating a bit more fruité, which it has occasionally lacked in some vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp acidity, and quite saline on the entry, with touches of black olive infusing the black fruit. A midweight with a lively, classically fashioned finish, this is a very commendable Potensac that should give 12–15 years of pleasure, but warrants 3–4 years in a cool, damp cellar. 90-92 points

The 2020 Potensac is composed of 44% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot and 22% Cabernet Franc, weighing in with an alcohol of 14.05%, a pH of 3.63 and an IPT (tannins index) of 76. The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested on the 29th and 30th of September, the Merlot from the 14th to the 26th of September, the Petit Verdot on the 29th of September and the Cabernet Franc on the 28th of September. With a medium to deep garnet-purple color, it offers up eager-to-please notes of fresh Bing cherries, redcurrants and black raspberries, plus hints of dried Provence herbs, dusty soil, wild mushrooms and tobacco leaf. The medium-bodied palate has a good concentration of red and black fruits with a chewy texture and just enough freshness, finishing earthy. 88-90 points

Bright and lifted on the nose with floral notes (see the percentage of Cabernet Franc) and more finesse than in the past. Defi nite sense of energy. Lovely texture on attack and plenty of freshness then drive and persistence. Big tannic frame (IPT tannin index nearly the same as Las Cases) but fine-grained and subtle. Ageing potential. Should be GV. 16.5+ points