2018 Chasse Spleen

The 2018 Chasse-Spleen still has a rather muted, recalcitrant nose that, despite aeration and decanting, just does not want to play. Light marine and seaweed scents gradually emerge alongside the black fruit, but I would have liked more vigor. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy, angular tannins and a little herbaceous, leading into a slightly raw finish. I have tasted some fantastic wines from Chasse-Spleen in recent years, but this 2018 leaves me scratching my head. Tasted twice.

45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc. Deep crimson. Classic left-bank aroma of cassis and cedar and very slight (and attractive) herbaceous character, particularly rare in 2018. The tannins are smooth but slightly thickened by the oak (40% new). This has the chewy, slightly dry texture you might expect from stereotypical Moulis but also has good balance for the longer term. (JH)

The 2018 Chasse-Spleen has a slightly pinched bouquet at first, missing the complexity of some of its peers. It comes across tight and unresponsive. The palate is medium-bodied with furry tannins and plenty of blackberry and raspberry fruit packed behind it. Fleeting glimpses of white pepper and bay leaf emerge toward the bold, persistent finish. This just needs more nuance and finesse. It is a perplexing Chasse-Spleen that does not deliver at the level that I anticipated, but I am intrigued to see if there is improvement once in bottle.