2016 Chateau La Fleur Peyrabon, Pauillac

The 2016 La Fleur Peyrabon has a perfumed, floral bouquet not a million miles away from Margaux. I appreciate the definition and freshness here. The palate is medium-bodied, not a powerful Pauillac but very elegant. The tannins here seem very fine and there is wonderful tension towards the finish. Maybe not a long-term proposition—it may need more body—but it is a beautiful wine that should give a lot of pleasure over the next 10-15 years.

67.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26.5% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot. 50% new oak for 14 months. Bluish crimson. Primary, scented cassis with a touch of cedar from the oak but it is backgrounded by the fruit. More cedary on the palate but excellent freshness. All in embryo but all in place for a long life. Persistent too. Very Pauillac. (JH)

Blackish crimson. Sweet, floral nose. Very soft. Where are the tannins?! Salty end. Easy to like but not very serious. (JR)