Dark cherries, tobacco, scorched earth, smoke and game inform the 2013 Clerc-Milon. The 2013 possesses good depth and intensity, although the tannins are a bit rough around the edges at this stage. In 2013 the blend is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Carmenere, harvested between October 1 and October 9. Tasted twice.

(58% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot, 12% cabernet franc, 2% petit verdot and 1% carmenere): Good bright, deep ruby. Aromas of blackberry, aromatic oak, licorice and eucalyptus. Fairly intensely flavored but tightly wound, with subdued but pure notes of blackberry, licorice and minerals. Finishes clean and saline; perhaps time will allow it to develop more flesh.

A very successful effort in this vintage from administrator Philippe Dhallhuin, this blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot is a bigger, richer, more complete wine than its sibling, d’Armailhac. Yields were a tiny 23 hectoliters per hectare and the wine exhibits a dark plum/ruby color, medium body, a fleshy palate, and notions of herbs as well as black currants. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.

Tasted blind. Deep crimson. Dark and lifted but a bit spirity. Fine texture, just a bit dry and lean overall. (JH)