Château Nénin 2024

Ruby red with a hint of purple; delicate, spicy aromas, a touch of tobacco, floral notes; light-footed on the palate, juicy fruit, fine, not overly dominant tannins, showing finesse and verve, finishing on sour cherry and a touch of blood orange. Very clean, in the style of the vintage.

Soft perfume, vanilla, cherries, blackcurrants and lots of perfume. Smells quite heady actually – some blackcurrant leaf aspects and violets with chocolate. Smooth and supple, this has a richness and concentration from the start – gently chewy – but with a juicy core and really tangy fruit. Definitely not plush but this has weight and such interest. Really not trying too hard, so elongated and focused but not grippy, or lean. Drinkable and finessed. Ageing 40% new barrels for 16 months. 5.3% press. 3.64 pH.

54% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. 35 hl/ha. Cask sample. More Cabernet than usual, hence the leafy, dark-fruit notes. Long, linear and structured but lacks a bit of stuffing. Acidity makes it strict as well. (JL)

Flowers and vibrant red berry aromas kick off the perfume. On the palate, the wine is soft, light, discreet, and bright, with classic charm. There is a lot of lift here, as the wine is focused on its clean, zesty, red berry profile. The wine blends 54% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. This is only the second vintage with Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. 13.2% ABV. Drink from 2027-2040. 91-93 pts

A majestic nose of blue and black fruits, promising a juicy core, lifted by mountain-fresh air and a touch of iris. On the palate, the promise is fulfilled: abundant succulence, kept in check by sleek, lively tannins. The floral note re-emerges, subtle, while the saline, sophisticated finish carries the momentum with elegance.