2018 Château Haut Maillet Pomerol

The nose is fruity, slightly tight and offers concentration as well as a certain power. It reveals notes of crushed cassis, pulpy Boysen berry and small notes of liquorice stick associated with touches of violet plum, cornflower as well as fine hints of tea, sweet spices and a subtle hint of saffron. The palate is fruity, fresh, slightly tight and offers richness, density, tension, energy and a fine acidulous frame. On the palate this wine expresses notes of pulpy blackberry, crushed cassis and small notes of violet plum associated with touches of lily, violet, pulpy raspberry, hints of liquorice, zan, mild tobacco, cardamom as well as a discreet hint of hazelnut, toasted oak and an imperceptible hint of coffee (in the background). Good lenth. Tannins are fine and finely firm.

Pomerol excelled in the vintage, and 2018 Château Haut-Maillet is stunning stuff that's certainly the finest wine I've tasted from the estate. Based largely on Merlot with around 15% Cabernet Franc, its dense purple/plum color is followed by a classic Pomerol nose of ripe black cherries, plums, leafy herbs, tobacco, and damp earth. With medium to full-bodied richness, it has a stacked mid-palate beautifully polished, silky tannins, and a great finish. I don't think it's going to be the longest-lived Pomerol, but it should benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and cruise for 10-15 years. I'm a fan!