Couvent des Jacobins 2021

Robust and firm, slightly bitter but not over-extracted, with a fruity finish.

The 2021 Couvent des Jacobins bursts with aromas of raspberries and cherries mingled with notions of iris, licorice and spices. Medium to full-bodied, ample and seamless, with a fleshy core of fruit, ripe acids and melting tannins, it will offer a broad drinking window.

Upfront and fruity at first, this gets off with a bang, giving tart red fruit, then a chalky, dark chocolate and graphite sensation comes in from the broad and plush tannins which coat the mouth and give grip. It has a touch of wood on the finish, some cedar and stalky aspects that just poke through. Direct and focused, it feels well made with definition and juiciness. Tasted three times.

Licorice, flowers, red, white and black cherries pop on the nose. On the palate, the wine is soft, creamy, round and fresh, with a nice, plummy character on the finish. Drink from 2024-2037.

Dark ruby core, purple reflections, subtle brightening on the rim. Fresh black forest berries, a touch of plums and fresh orange zest. Lean, red berries on the fresh vibrant palate, finely woven tannins and a long salty finish. A lively pairing with food.

I was able to taste the 2021 Couvent Des Jacobins on multiple occasions and I always thought it was an outstanding, beautiful wine. Deeply hued, with a great nose of ripe red and black fruits, iron, espresso, and hints of chocolate, it offers medium to full-bodied richness, a plush, round, layered mouthfeel, beautiful tannins, and a great finish. Based on 70% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot, this classy, elegant, impressive 2021 will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and evolve gracefully over the following decade.

Reduction on the first nose, opens up to show a beautiful spiced plum character. This is a wine that often stands out En Primeur for its Petit Verdot, and needs time to soften up, but this is exceptionally well-crafted, with juicy acidities, sinew muscles, plenty of peony and raspberry leaf floral aromatics, and dancing crushed rock minerality. Organic.

The 2021 Couvent des Jacobins has a deep garnet-purple color. The nose is a little dusty and broody to start, opening out to scents of black plums and boysenberries, with touches of tar and wood smoke. The medium-bodied palate is savory and lightly chewy, with just enough freshness and an earthy finish.