The 2014 Joanin Becot has an elegant bouquet with red cherries, bergamot and cassis aromas, a touch of cedar developing with time. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and a silky smooth texture; it is less chewy than it showed out of barrel. No, it is not a deep Saint Emilion, but there is ample tension and great persistence in the mouth. This is just a delicious Joanin Becot.

A big, powerful wine, the Joanin Bécot offers tons of depth to match its explosive personality. Mocha, dark fruit, smoke and new leather all flesh out in the glass. The style is decidedly rich and intense, yet all the elements are very nicely balanced. I expect the 2014 will be at its best with a few years in bottle, which should allow the tannins to soften a touch. The blend is 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, aged in 60% new French oak. Jean-Philippe Fort is the Consulting Winemaker. Tasted two times.

Tasted blind. Light green and vegy nose. Then a juicy palate that’s a bit stringy on the end. A bit more fruit needed in the middle. (JR)