2018 Château Grand Corbin-Despagne

Composed of 75% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Grand Corbin-Despagne has a deep garnet-purple color and flamboyant scents of stewed black and red cherries, mulberries and sassafras with an undercurrent of wild blueberries, potpourri and ground cloves, plus a waft of vanilla pod. The full-bodied palate is densely packed with black and blue fruit preserves, supported by firm, ripe, rounded tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and perfumed.

Three bottles of 2018 Grand Corbin Despagne were tasted from different sources. I was wary about the corks on the first two bottles; neither appeared taut and secure, and I feel the wine suffered as a result. A third bottle was better. Blackberry and red currant jam feature on the well-defined nose, accompanied by a touch of crushed stone. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red fruit, fine acidity and gentle grip on the finish. I am scoring this wine based on the third sample bottle and hope that I was just unlucky with the first two. I prudently place a question against my score.

Lots of red and black fruits, toasted spiced, dried flowers, and baking chocolate notes emerge from the 2018 Château Grand Corbin-Despagne, a full-bodied, ripe, heady, opulent Saint-Emilion with sweet tannins and a great finish. It packs a punch and will be prized by those who like big fruit and texture. A blend of 75% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, it should keep for 10-15 years.