Les Cruzelles 2022

As I wrote during primeur, the 2022 Les Cruzelles has plenty of fruit on the nose, especially following the more tightly coiled La Chenade. A black cherry note, a touch of cassis and a sprig of wild mint come through with time. This is quite exuberant and captivating. The palate is medium-bodied with a powerful entry that lacquers the mouth. Saturated tannins and fine acidity create a luxuriant Lalande-de-Pomerol with immense purity toward the finish. This delightful, slightly hedonistic wine from the Durantou stable should be tempered by time. 2028 - 2050

A dense and flavorful Lalande de Pomerol with plums and opulence as well as firm and velvety tannins that give it length and intensity. Medium- to full-bodied with plenty of fruit and creamy texture. Merlot-driven. 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. Drink after 2027.

More serious and structured than La Chenade, the 2022 Les Cruzelles unwinds in the glass with aromas of cherries and blackberries mingled with hints of licorice and mint. Medium to full-bodied, lively and layered, it's built around powdery structuring tannins that gently assert themselves on the finish.

Les Cruzelles 2022 is a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc and it has a deep garnet-purple color. It requires a little swirling to unlock notes of licorice, tilled soil, and Sichuan pepper, over a core of plum preserves, baked blackberries, and raspberry leaves. The medium to full-bodied palate is soft, elegantly styled, and graceful, with just enough fruit and a savory finish.