2020 Maucaillou

Coming from the Moulis region, the 2020 Château Maucaillou is a forward, charming, incredibly complex beauty delivering both red and black fruits, some tobacco and leafy herb notes, nicely integrated oak, soft tannins, and solid length on the finish. I don't see this making old bones, but it's going to deliver lots of pleasure over the coming 7-8 years.

The 2020 Maucaillou never really clicks out of first gear on the nose despite aeration, a bit dusty and needing more vim. The palate is simple, smooth and pastille-like, but lacks real complexity and there's very little grip on the finish. Early-drinking. Tasted twice.

The 2020 Maucaillou is redolent of dried herbs, rose petal, mint, sage and sweet red berry fruit. This is an especially nuanced, floral Moulis with a good deal of classicism and vibrancy. Maucaillou is not as extroverted as some wines in the appellation, but that works to its advantage.