La Dame de Bouard 2021

Freshness and clarity of fruit expression on the nose. Quite linear on the palate, tightly knit for now, with tension in the tangy black fruit and notes of wet stone and graphite marking the mid-palate and finish. Nice balance between acidity and fruit; this is enjoyable, if not the most complex. Easy and enjoyable drinking.

Spice, licorice, flowers, and cherries form the core of the nose and palate. The wine is medium-bodied, forward, soft and supple, with a sweet-and-tart, bright, red-fruit-oriented finish. Drink from 2024–2030.

Cherries, leafy herbs, smoke, and cedary notes define the 2021 La Dame De Boüard, which is unfortunately lean and firm on the palate, with a dry edge. It opens up with air, but this lacks mid-palate depth and texture.

Soft, chalky tannins, light on the finish, with easy autumnal fruits, balanced but underpowered on the finish.

A blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 Dame de Bouard has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It sashays out with showy notes of redcurrants and kirsch, plus hints of cardamom, lavender, and forest floor. Light-bodied, the palate is elegant and refreshing, with a lightly chewy texture and bright red berry flavors continuing on the finish.