2019, Château Ducru Beaucaillou, SAINT-JULIEN, 2nd Growth, Grand Cru ClasséBordeaux Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot. The 2019 Ducru Beaucaillou, which was matured in 100% new oak for 12 months, has a glorious bouquet of cigar humidor, cedar, black fruit and a touch of black truffle, very complex and quite compelling. The palate is still very Pauillac inspired in style, and finely proportioned, with chiseled tannins. Displaying superb clarity and salinity on the finish, this feels very persistent and utterly charming. It

lifted acidity and exemplary balance

the mouthwatering acidity is excellent and the overall impression is so detailed and nuanced

star anise and iron ore with a faint waft of dried mint

and when the tannins threaten to close in

The 2021 Léoville Las-Cases is classy

Despite the summer heat that became a challenge for winemakers in many corners of Tuscany

A lovely almost creamy aspect to the texture with just grippy and spiced tannins towards the finish

Persistent

100 Lisa Perrotti-Brown

6% Cabernet Franc

89-91 Antonio Galloni

paraffin wax and chalk dust