2017 Château Labégorce

This has a swathe of very attractive plums and ripe red berries on offer. The palate has a very fresh array of fine tannins. Smooth and easy with a rich, deep-set drive to the finish. Drink or hold.

Under the helm of Marjolaine de Coninck, who arrived from Fonplegade in 2009, this estate has been firing on all cylinders, and they've made a beautiful 2017 Chateau Labegorce. Based on 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that spent 14 months in 45% new oak, its deep purple/plum color is followed by a complex, medium to full-bodied, seamless Margaux that has complexity as well as depth and richness. With lots of cassis fruit and notes of sandalwood and spice, they’ve done a fabulous job with the tannins, and it has a great mid-palate and outstanding purity. You’d be excused for drinking bottles today, yet it should benefit from short-term cellaring and evolve for 15 years. This estate covers 65 hectares (there are 53 hectares under vine) located just north of the town of Margaux, on the plateau just across the road from Lascombes. If you haven’t tried these wines in a while, now is an excellent time to give them another look.