2021 Château Malartic-Lagravière Blanc, Cru Classé Pessac-Léognan

“The 2019 Malartic Lagravière was picked from 17 September to 11 October at 46hl/ha and sees 65% new French oak for an intended 18 months. It has a lovely bouquet with disarming blackberry, briary and subtle marine scents, just a whiff of brine in the background from the distant Gironde estuary. The palate is medium-bodied with extremely fine tannins that frame the layers of blackberry, raspberry and orange rind notes. Satin-like in texture, this feels reassuringly long in the mouth with a dab of white pepper on the aftertaste. What an outstanding Malartic from the Bonnie family. Tasted from three bottles. Drink: 2025-2055. (Previous vintage)”

“This elegance and beauty of this young wine is really something. Incense, sandalwood, currants and chocolate come through on the nose and palate. Its full-bodied, very fine-tannined and persistent. Sophisticated. Another 2016? (Previous vintage)”