2021 Château Les Cruzelles

The 2021 Les Cruzelles is just as impressive as it was en primeur. The blend is 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc, with the Franc very much front and center. Dried herbs, tobacco, cedar, new leather, menthol and licorice race across the palate. Deep and layered, with tons of dynamic energy, the 2021 is impeccably done.

- Antonio Galloni (12/2023)

This is very textured and structured for a 2021. It’s medium-bodied, with a firmness and linear tension that runs through the wine. Plenty of subtle berry and peach character. 65% merlot and 35% cabernet franc. Drink or hold. (07/2024)

Another total charmer from the Durantou family, the 2021 Château Les Cruzelles comes from a single parcel in the Lalande de Pomerol appellation and is 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc that was raised in 50% new French oak. Its healthy ruby/plum hue is followed by classic Merlot notes of ripe black cherries, spring flowers, leafy herbs, and damp earth. It's medium-bodied, has a supple, layered mouthfeel, soft tannins, and a good finish. Drink this delicious 2021 over the coming 7-8 years or so, possibly upwards of a decade. (04/2024)

A blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc, Les Cruzelles 2021 is deep garnet-purple in color. It comes skipping out with energetic notes of crushed plums, fresh blackberries, and juicy raspberries, giving way to an undercurrent of tar and anise. The medium-bodied palate has a firm backbone of grainy tannins, with plenty of freshness, delivering a burst of pure red and black flavors and a savory finish. (04/2024)

A blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc matured in 50% new oak barrels, the 2021 Les Cruzelles shows a dark, wild bouquet with aromas of cherries, iris, dark wild berries and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, elegantly juicy and fleshy, it’s seamless and fresh with a layered texture and powdery tannins. This well-made, forward, balanced beauty will drink well right out of the gate.

- Yohan Castaing (02/2024)