A deep claret and carmine red in the glass, with a vivid bouquet of black plum, cedar, cola, cassis, star anise, cherry, chamomile and violets. Beautifully poised in the palate, with a pop of juicy fruit flavour in the middle that floods out over the edges. Coltish, bright and tightly swaddled; but with a flush of succulent fruit at the core – offset with a real verve of savouriness and spice mid-palate. Layers of complexity emerge – nuances of of nettle and green peppercorn, black tea, cocoa and beetroot, followed with a wisp of oak toastiness. Firmly concentrated. An artful balance of chiselled acidity and big grippy tannin still showing youth, and a subtle power. Needing a little more time in bottle to bloom completely, but drinking very well now. The length is excellent, silken and elegant. 94pts
Tantalus Estate Écluse 2016
