2015 Les Asteries, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru

Always the more tight, fresh, and focused in the lineup from Jonathan Maltus, the 2015 Les Astéries checks in as a blend of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc, all from compressed limestone soils, brought up in a mix of new and used oak. Possessing brilliant minerality in its blackcurrants, black cherries, graphite, and forest floor aromas and flavors, this beauty hits the palate with a firm, focused, yet full-bodied style that carries plenty of tannins. Hide this puppy for 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 15+.

From a parcel near Fonroque. Well defined with firm but ripe tannins wrapped in supple fruit. Lovely length with the limestone terroir showing. Ageing potential.

Tasted blind. Paler and less blue than most. Much more evolved and more relaxed than its peers. An early developer. Dry tannins in evidence though. Will the fruit last them out? (JR)