2016 Fugue de Nenin

The second wine of the estate, the 2016 Fugue de Nenin is 79% Merlot and 21% Cabernet Franc that sees a slightly shorter time in oak. This elegant, medium-bodied, impressively balanced 2016 has a fleshy, forward style as well as classic damp earth, lead pencil, cedar, and tobacco aromas and flavors. It’s a delicious, easy-drinking wine that’s going to deliver ample pleasure over the coming decade.

Picked over eight days between September 23 and October 13, the 2016 Fugue de Nénin has a generous bouquet of blackberry and light briary aromas, nicely defined and demonstrating great clarity for a second wine. The palate is medium-bodied with a fresh entry, good backbone and nice focus. It’s just missing a little persistence on the finish. Otherwise, this is a decent Pomerol.

Dense and rich second wine of Nenin with dark berries, chocolate and hazelnuts. Full body, round and chewy tannins, yet polished and finished. Needs two or three years to soften, at least. Try after 2023.