2020 BOND Melbury
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Tasting notes
The name Melbury is in homage to a historic area in London, where the estate owners reside much of the year. Situated on the slopes of the Vaca Mountains, Melbury is planted on compacted clay soils that retain moisture in wet years . The 2020 vintage saw arid conditions . Bright, deep ruby. Delicate floral aroma with a violet hint. The tannins are beautifully fine and elegant, melting in a dark blackcurrant core. It is layered and complex, with a dark - chocolate note and fresh, minty finish. It's so pretty and delicate. (FG)
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
Leading off the 2020s from BOND, the 2020 Melbury has red and black fruit including black cherries as well as chocolate and some gravelly earth. Medium-bodied and nicely balanced, this elegant wine is straight and focused, with fine tannins and a clean finish. Drink bottles over the coming decade.
The 2020 Melbury is dark, dense and quite deep. Today, I find the aromatics muted and not fully expressive. Certainly, the charm and seductive quality I saw in the barrel sample is not present today. Time in the glass brings out the wine's more sensual character, but the overall profile remains decidedly on the somber side. Burly tannins gradually soften over time. Aeration is essential here.
The 2020 Melbury is bright, articulate and vibrant. In other words, classic Melbury. Dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, spice and kirsch are some of the notes that emerge from the glass. The 2020 is poised and exceptionally beautiful. There is a vividness here that is compelling.