2014 Lafleur Gazin

A dense, powerful wine, the 2014 Lafleur-Gazin is terrific. The aromatics alone are beguiling, with distinct Cabernet Franc overtones, even though there is only 5% of Franc in the blend. Mocha, sweet herbs, tobacco, anise and leather build in the glass as the 2014 shows off its creamy, enveloping personality. The 2014 is obviously an infant, but its textural finesse and complex bouquet are incredibly enticing. The tannins will need to soften, but I can't imagine that will be an issue here. In 2014 the blend is 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc.

The Château Lafleur-Gazin 2014 seems to show a little greenness on the nose compared to the Plince tasted alongside. Giving it more time to settle, that seems to ebb away but there remaing hints of green bell pepper tincturing the red berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a pleasant fleshy opening. The tannins feel slightly coarse, although there is respectable depth here and a nicely balanced, lightly spiced finish. It is one of JP Moueix's more rustic offerings, but I find charm here, personality.