2015 Les Asteries

Always the more tight, fresh, and focused in the lineup from Jonathan Maltus, the 2015 Les Astéries checks in as a blend of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc, all from compressed limestone soils, brought up in a mix of new and used oak. Possessing brilliant minerality in its blackcurrants, black cherries, graphite, and forest floor aromas and flavors, this beauty hits the palate with a firm, focused, yet full-bodied style that carries plenty of tannins. Hide this puppy for 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 15+.

Blended of 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc and displaying a deep garnet-purple color, the 2015 Les Asteries is scented of cast-iron pan, beef drippings and garrigue over a core of warm plums and black cherry compote with a waft of underbrush and truffles. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and with a firm frame of velvety tannins, it has a refreshing backbone lifting the densely packed fruit to a long, earthy and mineral-laced finish.

The 2015 Les Astéries is a wine of pure and total allure. Much more satisfying from bottle than it was from barrel, the 2015 marries the natural intensity of the year and Jonathan Maltus's personal imprint with energy - a combination that dazzles from the very first taste. The dark cherry, espresso, mocha and licorice flavors bristle with power. Sumptuous in feel, but with good savory and mineral underpinnings from the Franc, the 2015 has much to offer. The blend is 83% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc.