This wine relishes its richness while keeping its tannins firmly under control. That makes for a texture that is both fresh with acidity and dense with powerful fruits. It is restrained, but promises a rich future. Drink from 2027.

The 2018 Château Certan De May has come together beautifully since I tasted it from barrel. This blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon is medium to full-bodied and has a rounded, fruit loaded texture, some background smoky oak, and a great finish. This pleasure- bent, ripe, sexy Pomerol is the finest vintage I've tasted to date. Drink bottles over the coming 15-20 years.

This has a deep well of cassis, plum and blackberry preserve flavors to draw on, while licorice snap, black tea and roasted applewood notes emerge with some air. Solidly grippy back end with a nice tarry streak, showing good energy. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2023 through 2035. 1,500 cases made.

The 2018 Certan de May is a blend of 70% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sporting a medium to deep garnet-purple color, it features notes of black cherry compote, black raspberries and plum preserves, plus suggestions of underbrush, Sichuan pepper, dried Provence herbs and cedar chest. The elegantly styled, medium-bodied palate is filled with expressive black berry and earthy layers, supported by grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with an herbal lift.

The 2018 Certan de May has come together nicely over the last nearly two years. Some of the more angular edges has soften. Today, what comes through is an attractive Pomerol laced with hints of red, purplish fruit, lavender and spice. There is good depth to the 2018 if not quite the complexity or nuance of the best wines in the appellation. Overall, Certan de May is fruity and rather one dimensional. Drink it over the next two decades, give or take.