2020 Pontet Canet

Tasted blind. Deepest crimson but more evolved than some. Very ripe pure Ribena aroma. Firm and rather dry tannins with a touch of dark chocolate on the finish but a bit stalky after the initial sweetness. (JH)

The 2020 Pontet-Canet has a concentrated bouquet that leans more toward red than black fruit—a little savory in style. A second bottle is more exotic than the first. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannins. It's quite peppery for a Pauillac, with lovely ripe blackberry and mulberry notes emerging toward the persistent finish. In a strange showing, the second bottle is much drier and austere. I can't make heads or tails between the two bottles and consequently, I will not attribute a score. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

Aromas of blackcurrants and black cherries with hints of crushed walnuts, grilled thyme, cocoa powder and graphite. It’s full-bodied with layers of ultra-fine, silky tannins that elegantly coat your palate, allowing the juicy and vibrant fruit to shine. Delicate and pristine, yet compact with lots of energy and power to uncover in the coming years. It lasts for minutes and is delicious now. The purity of fruit is really impressive.