2021 Clos Cantenac, St Emilion, Bordeaux

A little more obviously oaky on the nose than the Petit Cantenac but still vibrantly fruity in aroma. Fresh with raspberries more than cassis though it has both, just a light cedary note. On the palate, a bigger wine, more chewy, sinewy, but not lean. Excellent freshness and balanced even without the flesh and richness I often find on this wine. Lots of energy in that freshness.

Drink 2026 - 2031

Notions of cherries, sweet red berries and raw cocoa introduce the 2021 Clos Cantenac, a medium to full-bodied, lively Saint-Émilion framed by powdery tannins that assert themselves on the finish.

The 2021 Clos Cantenac has a straightforward bouquet of red cherries, raspberry and light truffle scents. There is just a tiny reduction compared to the Petit Cantenac. The medium-bodied palate offers red berry fruit laced with espresso and chestnut and framed by grainy tannins. Just the right amount of dryness comes through on the Bing cherry and black-pepper-tinged finish. Worth seeking out.

Drink 2027 - 2038

This is the first time to have some Cabernet Franc in the blend of the main wine, and it works well, with juicy, mouthwatering raspberry and red cherry fruits, that deepen into more textured blackberry flavours as it settles into the glass. Gentle extraction, whispers of cigar box and campfire smoke, great clarity of flavour. Highly enjoyable from winemaker Charlotte Krajewski. 45% new oak.

Drink 2026 - 2040