The deep garnet-purple colored 2018 Kirwan comes barreling out of the glass with notes of cedar chest, cloves and stewed plums, followed by notions of cassis, dried Provence herbs and tobacco leaf with a waft of dusty soil. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers mouth-coating, juicy black fruits with a plush texture and plenty of freshness, finishing long and earthy.

43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 13% Petit Verdot. Deep ruby colour – tinged with purple. Seductively ripe nose. The fruit is fleshy and full without being overripe and is laced with cedar. The palate is round and full, generous in cassis and dark cherry. There is a little warmth, brought forward by the smokier elements of wood in the wine, but it is not excessive. Meaty and yet still sweet in fruit through to a long finish. (TP)

Tasted blind. Oak a bit obvious on the nose. Then extremely sweet on the palate! Disjointed with the acidity – sweet-and-sour wine marked by oak. Not very Margaux. (JR)