Château Puygueraud Francs Côtes de Bordeaux 2018

Coming from the talented Thienpont team, the 2018 Château Puygueraud is a juicy, up-front, undeniably delicious 2018 offering lots of perfumed, floral, and violet notes, sumptuous blue fruits, medium-bodied richness, and a juicy, balanced, lengthy style that keeps you coming back to the glass. The balance is spot on, as is the purity of fruit, and it's ideal for enjoying any time over the coming decade. The blend is 85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and the rest Malbec.

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Puygueraud (85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec) sings of kirsch, redcurrant jelly and blackberry preserves with hints of baked plums, black truffles and tapenade. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers bags of energetic red and black berry layers, supported by plush tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and lifted.

The 2018 Puygueraud comes across as a bit dull and lacking in both energy and depth. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, rose petal and spice emerge over time, but the 2018 never fully comes together. This is an awkward showing from Nicolas Thienpont's Côtes de Francs.

Shows a tobacco leaf note out front, backed by dark cherry and warm earth accents. Slightly trim on the finish. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec Drink now. 13,000 cases made.