Château des Jacques : Clos du Grand Carquelin 2018

Spicy, smoky aromas, still closed; dense attack, full development, polished tannins, ideal length; shows character and spice, with early signs of elegance thanks to good balance; should age a bit.

Deep ruby. Intensely perfumed dark fruit liqueur, violet and licorice scents, along with hints of exotic spices and cola. Chewy and penetrating on the palate, offering sappy blackberry, bitter cherry, floral pastille and succulent herb flavors that become livelier as the wine stretches out. Finishes extremely long and sweet, with building tannins and lingering spice and cherry notes.

Carquelin 2018 is a play of hot and cold. It gains altitude with hints of mountain flowers, dried herbs and black fruit coulis. The palate is airy, stretched out by powdery tannins and a blood-orange freshness. The savory edge evokes granite breaking through. A fine finish with notes of peppermint. A wine for patience and contemplation.

Undoubtedly the most complex terroir for Château des Jacques. The wine shows aromas of cherry, sweet spices, coffee and blond tobacco, with a metallic hint. The palate is finely built, with fine yet abundant tannins, and a persistent finish.