2018 Carignan Prima

The colour of elderberry juice and a purple rim. More immediately aromatic than the Ch Carignan Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, and sweeter smelling, from both fruit and oak. The same extremely smooth, chocolate-texture tannins and even with the riper fruit profile, more obvious freshness. Richer on the mid palate and more generous overall. Masses of compact but rounded tannins. Chewy, long finish and needs time. Drink it too young and the tannin build-up would be challenging. (JH)