Plenty of sweet berries with chocolate and smoke. Even coffee. It’s medium-bodied with ripe tannins. Cherries at the end. June 2020

The 2019 La Chenade exhales aromas of plum, dark berries, spring flowers and hints of spices. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, juicy and lively, perfectly balanced with a fresh, penetrating and long finish. It’s approachable now but also built to evolve with grace.

The 2019 La Chenade in Lalande-de-Pomerol was picked between 18 and 26 September and matured in 30% new oak. Unlike Durantou's fellow Lalande-de-Pomerol, this is predominantly red fruit rather than black with exuberant raspberry and cranberry, almost pastille-like. The palate is extremely well balanced, maybe with a bit more structure and weight than Les Cruzelles. The finish is spicy thanks to a liberal dash of cracked black pepper. Wonderful, as usual. June 2020

The 2019 La Chenade is plump and voluptuous in the glass, with terrific fruit presence and tons of pure character. Inky dark cherry, plum, spice, new oak and chocolate are all amped up in this racy, super-inviting Lalande de Pomerol. Denis Durantou and his team coaxed an unreal level of finesse in 2019. Harvest took place between September 18 and 26. Junen 2020

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. Initially reductive, eventually opening to a more floral spectrum. Lively and fresh on the palate with plenty of energy and drive. Slightly dry, chalky finish. (JL)