Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot. Very concentrated crimson thanks to the very small, drought-affected, highly extractable berries, ‘We work so hard to hold on to freshness.’ They do sell off some bulk wine. 20 acres planted, 16 for this blend and 4 to Syrah. Definitely more concentrated and burly than the 2016. Sweeter but still with some dried herbs and a bit more obvious alcohol. Less elegant. Strong vintage variation. A bit hot on the end. A little dry tannin on the finish too. Not as ready as the 2016. (JR)

Composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2015 IX Proprietary Red Estate sports a deep garnet-purple color and nose of smoked meat, blackberries and black currants with suggestions of baking spices, dark chocolate, fertile earth, dried Provence herbs, cardamom and lavender plus a touch of cigar box. Full-bodied, rich, firm and restrained, it has a lovely earthy, soft-spoken style at this youthful stage, promising great things to come over the forthcoming 25-30 years.