2017 Faugeres

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Faugeres comes sashaying out of the glass with pretty kirsch, Black Forest cake and chocolate box scents followed by hints of rosehip tea, fallen leaves and cloves. Medium-bodied, the palate has a velvety texture and bags of perfumed fruit, finishing long and fragrant. The wine was aged in 50% new and 50% second fill French oak barrels for 15 months. The blend is 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 2017 Faugères matured in 50% new oak for 15 months. Tasted on two occasions. The first example comes across a little smudged on the nose and soft on the palate, but the second, three months later, evinces more delineation and focus with scents of blackberry, blueberry and crushed stone aromas. The palate has certainly firmed up and gained more backbone, with gentle grip and a touch of graphite and truffle on the finish. Cellar this for several years if you can because I believe it will continue to improve.

The 2017 Faugères is dark, plush and inviting. Blackberry jam, chocolate, spice, new leather and licorice inform this deep, muscular Saint-Émilion. The 2017 finds a good bit of freshness and aromatic lift, along with redder tonalities of fruit, with time in the glass. The oak is a bit prominent today. Otherwise, this is very nicely done. Tasted two times.