2015 Domaine de Baron'Arques

Tasted blind. Mid crimson. Slightly stewed nose and rather a lack of freshness on the palate but it’s a solid cocktail of southern French flavours. Just a little soupy with a bit of dryness on the end. No shortage of slightly rustic tannin. (JR)

Smelling like a classy Right Bank Bordeaux, the 2015 Grand Vin is a blend of 57% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 13% Syrah, 11% Malbec and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. Cigar box and cassis notes lead the way, followed by hints of pencil shavings, charred barrel and dark chocolate. It's medium to full-bodied, with a fine, long and slightly dusty finish that suggests around a decade of ageability.