2016 Grand Corbin Despagne

Very dark crimson. Heady and sweet – lacks a little freshness. Elements not knit together. Just needs a bit of zestiness. The fruit flavour seems almost to have been boiled out. (JR)

Spice, black cherries, leafy herbs, and underbrush notes all emerge from the 2016 Château Grand Corbin-Despagne, which is based on 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. This charming, relatively straightforward effort has medium-bodied depth and richness, rock-solid balance, and light tannins, all making for an already delicious Saint Emilion to drink over the coming decade.

Ripe and open with plenty of bitter chocolate and cocoa powder, but also full lemon-peel character, crisp acidity and moderately dry tannins. Makes a bold statement. Lively finish. A blend of 75 per cent merlot, 24 per cent cabernet franc and one per cent cabernet sauvignon.