2021, Château Cantemerle, HAUT-MÉDOC, 5ème Grand Cru Classé

Bordeaux Blend: Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2021 Cantemerle is a powerful, classically built wine. Pipe tobacco, cedar, blood orange and exotic spice all run through its mid-weight frame. The Cabernets are especially evident in this year's blend. There's good depth and plenty of character. 89-91 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.

Allspice, cedar, juniper and blackcurrants - a heady, appealing perfume. Lightly framed with gentle but mouthwatering and succulent red berry fruits mingling with firm tannins that coat the mouth in a fine layer of chalky, fruity saltiness. Attractive balance, if a little light on the mid-palate at this point, but this has a long finish and a motion of flavour from beginning to end. It feels well worked with concentration and direction. Structured and confident. 91 Georgina Hindle, Decanter.

The 2021 Cantemerle is a very strong effort in a challenging year, offering up aromas of blackcurrants and plums mingled with hints of spice box, black truffle and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and charming, it's supple and succulent, with a generous core of fruit and a saline finish. It's sure to number among the sleepers of the vintage. 90-91 William Kelley, Wine Advocate.