Clos René 2018

70% Merlot complemented by 20% Cabernet Franc and a touch of Malbec, which has become rare in Pomerol but adds complexity here. Dark ruby with a slight violet sheen. On the nose, black cherry, ripe blackberries, baked plums, damp forest floor and a hint of cigar box. Subtle, smoky, delicately animal. The 2018 is ripe and powerful, with silky tannins and good structure. The use of oak is restrained and supportive without dominating.

A distinct and very evocative Pomerol nose. Dark berry fruit with a delicious herby earthiness that I really like, a touch of woodsmoke, cinnamon, a little hint of ferrous minerality, a natural sweetness and a suggestion of cedar. Plump, rich and quite glossy on the palate, too, with reasonably fine-grained but assertive tannins. This should age very gracefully.

Medium-bodied, finesse-styled Pomerol focusing on the softness of the tannins and the sweetness of the plummy fruits. Elegant, fresh, and with good tension on the palate, give it a few years to fill out and it should be an even better wine.

A blend of 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and the rest Malbec, the 2018 Clos René has a big, exuberant nose of blue fruits, tobacco, toasted spice, and leafy, forest-floor-like nuances. This carries to a medium- to full-bodied, nicely concentrated, elegant Pomerol with beautiful tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a gorgeous finish.

Kunz barrel sample 19: slender, peppery bouquet, blueberries, bread crust, iron. Light, slightly bitter palate with a firm, crunchy structure, light fruit, medium aromatics, sweet finish.

Sleek, peppery bouquet, blueberries, bread crust, iron. Light, austere palate with a firm core, light fruit, medium aromatics, sweet finish. 17/20 2024 - 2036

Wine with very ripe fruit. Soft on the attack and a bit firmer on the finish. Good body. Medium length.