Margaux de Brane, Margaux 2020
A deep mahogany red core with bright cherry brim greets you upon pouring, with a swirl of the glass releasing deep aromas of dark fruit coulis, raspberry, Chai tea and spice with a waft of toasty, smokey oak.
The palate really echos the aromas nicely, dark berry fruit compote to start, with red cherry emerging and notes of dried herb, moments later and cracked black pepper and warming cedar begin to emerge.
The tannic grip really is velvety smooth, only briefly making its presence felt before being overcome by the ripe fruit sweetness, subtle smokey oak, with berry fruit, and spice holding long on the finish.
I was struck by how enjoyable this is less than 5 years from harvest, those smooth, velvety tannins and plump, ripe berry fruit and spice, make this such a lovely unaccompanied glass, yet with the depth and presence to partner a fine Sunday roast.
14% ABV | Drink now - 2029
James Russell-Grant