2019 Haut Breton Larigaudiere

The 2019 Haut-Breton Larigaudière still has a very opulent and high-toned nose that would have benefited from more restraint, featuring boysenberry, black currant and a touch of mocha. The palate is rather disappointing compared to the showing from barrel, with slightly hard tannins and a dry finish. Admittedly, I had high hopes for this, but this bottle throws doubt on my optimism.

The 2019 Haut-Breton Larigaudière is plush, deep and wonderfully expressive. Black cherry, licorice, spice, chocolate, leather and espresso all flesh out in a generous, creamy Margaux that will drink well right out of the gate. The exuberant, racy style is hugely appealing,

Full bottle just 1,272 g. The De Schepper family again. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Very healthy deep crimson. Sweet and rather dry-tannined on the palate – not to say pinched. Just a tad thick and dusty. Hint of sour chewiness on the end. Not a harmonious whole – at this stage anyway. Though it's clearly concentrated and ambitious. Should get there in the end. (JR)