Château du Domaine de l'Eglise 2017

This offers up a mix of damson plum, bitter cherry, savory and tobacco leaf notes, backed by a hint of singed cedar on the finish. The fruit is pure but the structure remains a bit trim in the end. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2027. 3,000 cases made.

Violets and blackberries with black truffles on the nose. Medium to full body and fine, creamy tannins. Medium finish. Racy tannins tie this up nicely. Shows class. A blend of 97% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. Better after 2021.

Dominated by Merlot with a blend of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, the wine opens with flowers, chocolate, and plums. Medium to full-bodied with soft, silky tannins and more chocolate-covered plums on the finish, the wine shows freshness and should age reasonably well, too.

30% frost, 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc: these are the figures for the vintage. Sap and depth, with a floral touch beginning to emerge. For now, it’s reticent; this cru will reveal itself in a few years. Let’s give it time.

Dark, intense color. Moderately aromatic nose with ripe fruit, complemented by very pleasant light oak. Supple on the attack, then velvety mid-palate, very flavorful, with good structure and a lovely burst of fruit; the wine unfolds deliciously, long and seamless. Blend: 97% merlot, 3% cabernet franc.