A dense, powerful, explosive wine, the 2014 Le Carillon d'Angélus hits the palate with serious depth. Smoke, licorice, raspberry jam, black cherries, spices and menthol flesh out in the glass. The Carillon is a very serious second wine built on pure intensity. The blend is 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc.

The 2014 Le Carillon d'Angelus has a straightforward bouquet with redcurrant, cranberry and pomegranate aromas, the oak discretely hidden behind the fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, not much depth, but it retains satisfying balance on the black olive-tinged finish. Drink over the next four or five years.

About 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc. Picked 3-22 October. Nervy and racy. Silky textured at first but pretty dry on the end. Very polished. Rather inky. (JR)