2016 Lafleur

Tar, tobacco, mushroom and earth aromas. The primary fruit is beginning to recede, joined by an enveloping note of dried flowers. The palate is vibrant, with abundant, rounded fruit, persistent concentration and mouth-coating, polished tannins. There is power but also compelling composure. Still energetic, with a touch of firmness. Drinkable now with aeration, but it will continue to evolve for years to come. Drink or hold. 10 Years On retrospective.

Of the three 'Pomerol Firsts', Lafleur is the most restrained, going long on rosemary, sage, truffle and toasted white pepper, oyster shell, saffron, with waves of rose and peony aromatics that are dominant over the autumnal hedgerow fruit and grilled sandalwood character. Intellectual, still not in its full drinking window, give a good five years longer in my opinion, but this is a stunning wine.

The 2016 Lafleur is a magnificent wine and perhaps the first that Baptiste and Julie Guinaudeau fashioned with finer tannins. The bouquet blossoms with pure blueberry, blackberry, violet and incense aromas that caress the olfactory senses. The palate is extraordinarily pure and refined with layers of black fruit, hints of black truffle, tobacco and pencil box. The satin-like finish fans out effortlessly. Just a beautiful Lafleur with a very long future ahead. Tasted from ex-château magnum at Kate & Kon's 40-Year vertical in Austria.