2017 Château d'Issan
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Tasting notes
The Blanchy family made a smart move acquiring Château d'Issan in 1851, just four years before the ranking - buying from Jean-Baptiste Duluc, who had invested heavily in an estate that has one of the longest histories in the Médoc, dating back to the 12th century. This is relatively young at only 8 years old, but is already showing finesse and balance, with precision to the tannic architecture and soft, juicy blackberry and blueberry fruits, studded with sage, crayon and gunsmoke. 50% new oak Emmanuel Cruse and Jacky Lorenzetti co-owners since 2013, with the Cruse family in place since 1945.
Critic scores
James Suckling
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
A classically balanced and understated Issan, beautifully poised and almost ready to begin drinking - certainly with a good carafe. Expect savoury blueberry and redcurrant fruits, grilled earth with pomegranate, sage, white pepper, cigar box and peony aromatics. Sappy with fine tannins. 43hl/h yield, 50% new oak for ageing, Emmanuel Cruse owner.
Tasted blind. Mid ruby colour. Bay leaf, sage and crunchy red fruits on the nose. Dried plums on the palate, hints of leather and savoury spice. There is a softness and savoury maturity that offers real approachability, but it is not certain that this is a wine for the long haul. (TP)
The 2017 d'Issan is pliant, supple and nuanced. This is an especially rich, voluptuous style, with a real feeling of lushness from the Merlot. Dark plum, tobacco, leather, cedar, licorice and spice build into a creamy, racy finish wrapped with silky tannins. Creamy and textured, with impeccable balance, the 2017 Issan is a winner from Emmanuel Cruse and his team.