Chateau Pavie 2021

Deep ruby, dark intense core, purple edge to the narrow rim. Fresh cherries, a hint of orange zest, a touch of noble wood, delicate nougat. Medium-bodied, red berry nuances, vivid tannins, still a little demanding, fresh, salty and mineral on the finish; will benefit from time in bottle.

Beautiful depth of colour, and the aromatics take their time to open, giving a closed slightly austere feel at first. Shows a verticality through the palate, with pummice stone scrape to the tannins, opening up to show black chocolate and creamy blueberry through the mid palate, and softer black cherry, damson, mandarin peel and tea. Harvest September 28 to October 12. No chaptilisation, the powerful south-facing slopes coming in extremely handy in 2021. 75% new oak, 3.67ph.

Blackberry and black cherry compote flavors bring a restrained juiciness, while floral, singed apple wood and black tea notes fill in liberally. The finish extends nicely, with a long, underlying chalky minerality. An admirable effort for the vintage. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2025 through 2040.

Very complex with red currants, iodine and iron. Medium-bodied, with a dense yet energetic palate and a long and racy finish showing chalk and gunpowder. Flinty. 52% merlot, 30% cabernet franc and 18% cabernet sauvignon. Tight at the end, suggesting at least four to five years of cellaring. Drink after 2029.

Tasted blind. Dark blackish crimson. Very rich, sweet nose. No rough edges whatsoever! Just manages to be refreshing enough. But it’s a tad inky on the (long) finish. Is it just youthful?