The 2019 Séraphine, the recent addition to the Pomerol landscape courtesy of proprietor Martin Krajewski, was very impressive when I tasted the barrel sample. Now in bottle, it delivers on that promise. It has a gorgeous, pure, lilting bouquet of blackberry, raspberry and light black truffle scents that unfold in the glass. I really appreciate the definition and detail, and the prudent use of new oak (40%). The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, a keen thread of acidity, a touch more backbone than a few months ago, and insistent grip on the finish. Traces of black pepper furnish the aftertaste. As I said before, one to watch. Just 2,800 bottles produced.

This wine is made from 100% Merlot and is being aged in French oak barrels, 40% new, for 12-14 months. The alcohol came in at 14%. Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Séraphine opens with the most beautiful perfume of plum preserves, violets, clove oil and cinnamon stick over a core of blueberry compote, Morello cherries and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-coating black and blue fruit preserves with a fantastic line of freshness and beautifully ripe, plush tannins, finishing with loads of mineral and spicy sparks.