Château Puyblanquet 2020

Polished, thanks to a toasted vanilla note that frames a core of friendly cherry and plum preserves. Shows subtle savory and cedar notes through the finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2029. 3,000 cases made, 500 cases imported.

This is the first vintage since the vineyard returned to the Malet Roquefort family after 60 years. It is full of black fruits and ripe juicy tannins, with a freshness allied to the wine's natural structure. It is a wine to age. Drink from 2027.

Fragrant cherry, blackcurrant and cedar. Currant and mineral edge unfold across a supple, succulent palate, framed by tangy acidity and grippy tannin, with a long finish.

This shows aromas of ripe black cherries, mulberries, dark chocolate, licorice and crushed walnut. Medium- to full-bodied, dense and velvety with creamy tannins and silky texture. Polished finish. 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. Drink from 2025.

The 2020 Château Puyblanquet is up-front and fruit-loaded, with lots of darker berries, truffle, iron, and leafy herb notes to go with a medium to full-bodied style on the palate. It has ripe tannins, good balance, and shines for its fruit and length. I like it today and see no need to hold off, although it's going to keep for at least 8-10 years.

Historically, this estate belonged to the Malet family, who had to sell it in 1959 for inheritance reasons, and above all to be able to keep La Gaffelière. The property has now returned to the family fold. Alexandre de Malet bought it back from the family who had purchased it in 1959 from his father! The circle is complete. From the outset, the bouquet signals freshness, which is hardly surprising given its clay-limestone soils. Alongside chalky nuances, it reveals aromas of red berries. The attack is lively, juicy and mouthwatering. Well supported by finely honed tannins, the wine shows vigor and energy. For a first release, the excellent level of this wine deserves real praise!

The estate left the Malet Roquefort family (Château La Gaffelière) in 1959. They bought it back in June 2020. Greater attention is now being paid, especially to parcel-by-parcel work. And the results change almost immediately. Dark, intense, beautiful colour. A highly aromatic nose, fruity and subtle. Juicy on the attack, well present through the mid-palate, with flavour and a fine texture, the wine develops a slightly austere edge while remaining very tasty. Lovely, sappy length. Blend: 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Alcohol: 14.5%. pH: 3.5.