The 2019 Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru has a very cohesive nose of raspberry, wild strawberry and veins of blueberry fruit, opening gradually in the glass to reveal top notes of pressed violet. The oak is present but integrated —simpatico with the fruit. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine tannins that frame concentrated, slightly confit -like red fruit, liberally sprinkled with white pepper. With an assertive, structured finish that is just a little drier than I would have liked, this should be afforded this 3-5 years in a cool dank cellar. Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting.

Cask sample. Mid, soft crimson. Subtle and alluring red fruits. Not stemmy at all but with a clear freshness to the fruit. On the palate, sweet, soft, round and rich like velvet. Remarkably approachable for a grand cru and yet it has real depth. It might be a shame to drink this young but you certainly could. Gently spiced, caressing in both flavour and texture. Long finish, and fresh even though it is so smooth. (JH)