Château Poujeaux 2017

Stunningly fruity; full attack, fleshy structure, compact, even firm, well-structured, with a finish still influenced by the élevage; should benefit from some aging.

The 2017 Poujeaux is blended of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 13% Petit Verdot, aged for 16-18 months in French oak barrels (30% new). Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, it has a pronounced nose of fresh blackcurrants, crushed black berries and kirsch, with nuances of cedar chest, pencil lead and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied, the palate has a good core of pure, expressive black fruits, framed by firm, rugged tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing just a touch hard.

Focused and pure, with unadorned cassis, cherry, plum pit and chalky mineral notes working in unison. The finish stretches out nicely, showing a violet echo. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2031. 11,666 cases made.

Right from the nose this has rich, deep cassis and dark fruit notes, as well as a lovely juicy vibrancy through the palate. There are firm tannins that have some vibrancy to them. Although it’s not as persistent in structure as in 2016 and 2015, this is an extremely successful wine in the 2017 vintage. Aged in 33% new oak. A yield of 26hl/ha, so there will be reduced volumes – an estimated 140,000 bottles this year. Fortunately the gravelly heart of the vineyard was not affected by the frost. There is an austerity to the tannins but it's still hugely enjoyable.

Light notes of flowers and chocolate powder over red berries. The palate is smooth and elegant, with a core of very juicy red-fruit flavor and a wrap of fine tannin. Drink or hold.

62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 13% Petit Verdot. Very upright in its Cabernet black fruit and strict tannins, so that the Petit Verdot perfume is rather overwhelmed but starts to emerge with aeration. Firm, dry tannins that need time to unfurl to reveal the fruit. (JH)

Spice, flowers, espresso bean, red plum and black cherry scents mingle on the nose. On the palate, this is very plush yet spicy, with a cheerful red-fruit character. The wine was made from a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 13% Petit Verdot. Th

Another consistent estate, the 2017 Chateau Poujeaux is from the Moulis region of the Medoc and is 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 13% Petit Verdot brought up in 30% new oak. It reveals a deeper ruby color as well as attractive herbal and underbrush notes interwoven with plenty of dark fruit and chocolate. Medium-bodied, balanced, with good ripeness and depth, this beautifully balanced 2017 can be drunk today or cellared for over a decade.

The 2017 Poujeaux has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It needs a little swirling to unlock notes of fresh blackcurrants, kirsch, and mossy tree bark, plus hints of dried herbs and damp soil. Medium-bodied, the palate has a sturdy structure of firm, grainy tannins with great freshness and a savory finish.

Balanced, clean, complex, with precise extraction. A decidedly Médoc character.

2017 is still a little tight, but it certainly has breed; above all, it lengthens beautifully and unfolds silky tannins.

Full-bodied, sappy wine with length and a beautiful structure; a slight dip in mid-palate, elegant.

Poujeaux 2017 was aged in 30% new barrels, with the remainder aged in one- and two-wine barrels. The bouquet is classic and inviting, with a lovely harmony between fruit, élevage and terroir. Juicy, gourmand and lively on the palate. The tannins have a fine grain and appear late. They are compact and aligned with the structure that energizes the entire palate. A fine success. Poujeaux is a safe bet, confirmed year after year.

Logo on the cork: LA Dark color, already showing evolution. Moderately intense nose, also evolved (a touch of cedar). Juicy, flavorful palate, quite full for the vintage, with already integrated aromas and coated tannins. Good length. Blend: 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 13% Petit Verdot.