Château Belle-Vue

A blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Carménère, aged for approximately 14 months in oak, 30% new, the 2018 Belle-Vue reveals pretty notions of crushed blackberries, mulberries and boysenberries, plus suggestions of underbrush, ground cloves and menthol. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly styled and refreshing, delivering bags of crunchy black fruits and a soft texture, finishing with a minty kick. It has 14% alcohol.

Reserved but plenty of lift, the palate fresh and zesty. Juicy with plenty of firm, integrated tannins. Grippy finish. Needs to fill out but should age.

Dark cherries, blueberries and herbs on the nose. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins. Juicy, yet structured. Flavorful finish with pretty length. Clean. Try after 2024.