2020 Clos Marsalette
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The 2020 Clos Marsalette offers up rich aromas of dark berries, cherries, smoked meats and rich spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, broad and fleshy palate that's supple and enveloping, with a generous core of fruit and a savory, carnal finish.
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Neal Martin
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2020 Clos Marsalette is clearly outstanding, with terrific red and black fruits as well as some earthy truffle and spicy, tobacco-driven aromatics. Based on 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, this medium to full-bodied, silky, textured 2020 is going to over-deliver over the coming 15+ years.
The 2020 Clos Marsalette is a Pessac-Léognan that I expressed reservations towards out of barrel. Now in bottle, it has a relatively light yet attractive bouquet with brambly red fruit, blackcurrant, touches of iodine and a hint of licorice. The palate is where my initial vexation stemmed. Indeed, while I find this nicely balanced with pliant tannins, the finish just lacks a bit of grip and balance, perhaps, just a little…ephemeral for my liking and compared to other vintages. Still, enjoyable, but as teacher used to write…can do better.