2021, Château La Louvière Rouge, PESSAC-LÉOGNAN, Grand Vin de Bordeaux

The 2021 La Louvière is quite intense on the precise nose of blackberry, wild strawberry, cedar and tobacco scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, fresh and vibrant, leading to an elegant finish. A success in a difficult vintage. 91-93 Neal Martin.

Lovely perfumed berry nose. Juicy and bright on the palate, this has a sense of joy to it and although the tannins come in and dominate the palate in terms of chewy texture the fruit has persistence and determination giving slightly sour cherry, strawberry and tangy raspberry the whole way through. I love the upfront nature here, the terroir on show in the glass, and the chalky tannins provide the support which will soften over time. Skilled winemaking on show. 92 Geogina Hindle, Decanter.

The epitome of cool blue fruit, on the border of full ripeness, where there is elegance and balance, expertly handled extraction, grilled almond and gun-smoke coming in under the fruit. This is a success, a lean, carefully constructed wine. 91 Jane Anson.