Dark cherry, plum, smoke, tobacco and game notes emerge from the 2013 Ormes de Pez. Broad and ample on the palate within the context of the year, the 2013 stands out for its balance and sense of proportion. Savory herb and game notes add nuance on the finish. The 2013 is a bit rough around the edges, but quite pleasing just the same. Yields came in at 34 hectoliters per hectare as opposed to the more typical 50 or so. The blend is 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot.

The 2013 Les Ormes de Pez has a respectable bouquet with raspberry and wild strawberry scents, a touch of cedar coming through and developing an almost Pauillac-like persona. The palate is a little tinny on the entry, but the mid-palate has respectable weight with more red than black fruit, gently building to a single, peppery finish that cuts away quickly. Still, this represents decent luncheon Claret if nothing more.

Gently aromatic – dark fruit, graphite, very slightly herbaceous but not green. Lovely and juicy on the palate. Texture is dry but balanced by adequate dark fruit. Juicy length. (JH)

Pale crimson. Good triumph of fruit over tannin but it's all a bit light and inconsequential. (JR)