The deliciously ripe and juicy red currant, plum and raspberry fruit is well-knit, revealing hints of tobacco, singed chestnut and cast iron in the background. Shows lots of range and drive, with serious grip on the finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

The 2018 Château Bourgneuf is, as always, a richer, powerful Pomerol from the Moueix team. Made from 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc from gravelly, iron-rich soils (there's some clay as well), its deep purple color is followed by lots of cassis, spicy oak, graphite, and earthy minerality. Rich, medium to full-bodied, with ripe tannins and a terrific mid-palate, it's a brilliant Pomerol in the making. Tasted twice. 92-94+

A very dense and layered young wine with lots of fruit and density. Yet, it remains agile and fresh, because of the bright acidity and fresh finish. Potent

A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, the 2018 Bourgneuf has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and leaps from the glass with vibrant kirsch, blackberry pie and crushed plums notions followed by hints of chargrilled meats, fertile loam, truffles and black pepper. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has an intense core of black fruits and savory layers, framed by rounded tannins and loads of freshness, finishing on a meaty note. (LPB)

The 2018 Bourgneuf retains the charming bouquet that I observed in barrel, offering well-defined blackberry and crushed strawberry fruit, forest floor scents percolating up with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp tannins, lithe and supple in the mouth. A touch of white pepper emerges toward the elegant finish. This is a delightful Pomerol, not long-term, but you will definitely finish a bottle.

In this wine, dense black fruits laced with dark chocolate and licorice flavors have a powerful, solid character. The wine has a massive feel, pushing richness and demanding aging. Drink the wine from 2026.