The 2021 D`Issan is performing well, exhibiting aromas of rich berries, licorice, violets, sweet soil tones and pipe tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, layered and lively, with powdery tannins and a saline finish, it will flesh out with elevage to deliver a supple, perfumed D`Issan that will offer a broad drinking window. It`s a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. 90-93 points

The 2021 d`Issan is supple, easygoing and quite attractive. It will be interesting to see if it develops more complexity and nuance with elevage. Today, Issan comes across as straightforward and lacking both in depth and nuance, while the aromatics are muted. Tasted two times. 90-92 points

Rich aromatics, fresh acidities, careful extraction showcasing black tea and saffron spice notes, balanced and elegant, building in momentum through the palate. Skilful winemaking with plenty of grip. Has austerity through the mid palate, but no dip, and the tannins elongate towards the finish, giving salinity and a moutwatering kick. You can clearly imagine this ageing well, in the slightly sombre but classic style of 2002 or 2006. 50% new oak. Second year with all five of the major black grape varieties of the Medoc, and the Malbec and Petit Verdot make their presence felt. 94 points

The 2021 d`Issan was matured in 50% new oak and bottled in June. This displays admirable vivacity on the nose, mainly red-fruited, with clove, a touch of mocha and hints of pencil shavings surfacing with time in the glass-well-defined and `correct`. The palate is pliant on the entry with a slight creaminess to the texture. Showing red berry fruit, allspice and hints of cinnamon and white pepper, this exerts a gentle grip with quite a persistent aftertaste. Just a bit short and light on the finish, it doesn`t have the finesse of the 2019 or 2020, but it has plenty of character and will drink after six or seven years. 90 points