2022 Saintem

Based on 100% Merlot that was raised in 30% new barrels, the 2022 Saintayme is juicy and upfront, with bright red and black fruits intermixed with hints of tobacco, crushed stone, and graphite. It's nicely balanced, medium to full-bodied, upfront, and absolutely delicious. I love it today, yet it’s going to deliver the goods over the coming decade. Readers could do much worse than a case of this in the cellar.

The 2022 Saintayme conveys a sense of joy on the nose, with finely delineated vivacious black cherries, wild strawberry and a hint of cola. The medium-bodied palate is well balanced and quite elegant in style, with more black than red fruit, grainy tannins and a touch of white pepper on the finish. It feels malleable in the mouth and will drink slightly earlier than I expected out of barrel.

Plenty of depth on the nose here, not easy in a vintage where alcohols run high, that can cut off aromatics and terroir expression. Enjoyable, reserved, great quality, love the limestone scrap, plenty of character, touch of floral notes that underline a rise through the palate. Takes its time. 30% new oak, harvest September 17 to October 3. Tasted twice.