This wine is dominated by rich, generous black fruits from Merlot, giving it a warm feel that is balanced by acidity. A bite of pepper indicates the high alcohol ,which is a shame for this otherwise maturing wine. Drink from 2022.

Lots of smoky, meaty red and black fruits, roasted herbs, cedar, and chocolate emerge from the 2018 Château Bourdieu, a medium-bodied, nicely balanced, elegant wine from the Blaye region of Bordeaux. Already drinking nicely, it has light tannins and the sweet fruit and charm of the vintage. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years.