The 2019 Petit-Village is soft, creamy and open-knit, all of which give it quite a bit of appeal. Succulent dark cherry, plum, licorice, spice and menthol are pushed forward in this decidedly open-knit, soft, Pomerol. The 2019 has come together quite well during élevage.

The 2019 Petit-Village demands a lot of coaxing from the glass. Like some other Pomerol crus, it feels a bit static at first, missing the joie-de-vivre I expected. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, quite structured and grippy, gaining more detail and precision towards a slightly earthy finish. I hope to see more charm by the time of bottling.

80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Last vintage made by AXA Millésimes before the property was sold to neighbour Ch Beauregard. Dark crimson with a garnet rim. Sweet start but all a little diffuse. Not quite enough drive. And a bit of heat on the end. (JR)