Fresh, ripe and polished, featuring cassis and plum fruit flowing through over a bright mineral edge. Light sanguine and violet notes gild the finish, with the fruit lingering prettily. Very pure. Drink now through 2027.

The 2015 Clos Marsalette (Rouge) is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc picked between September 21 and October 5 at 42 hectoliters per hectare. Matured in 40% new oak barrels, it has a correct, tightly wound bouquet, blackcurrant with just a touch of wilted violet. I like the definition here, but it is holding its breath in at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied with light tannin. You could almost slip this down the throat now: silky smooth, just a light grip with fine tannin on the finish. It has an easy-drinking sensibility, though that does not mean it was not thoughtfully crafted. Enjoy this Pessac-Léognan over 5-7 years.