Château Thénac 2013

68.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24.5% Merlot and 7% Petit Verdot planted here, the vines grow on a gravel ridge, close to Lamarque, where one can catch a ferry across the Gironde estuary to Blaye. Great care is taken in the vineyards, with ploughing between the rows and only natural fertiliser made from horse manure and organic waste from the vines used. This 2018 is a truly appetizing bottle, with aromas of ripe damson and plum, very pure. There is a lovely fleshy texture, with fine tannins and super length to finish.

Producer PHILIPPE FERRIER Moulis-en-Médoc is nestled on the Left Bank, between the cru appellations of Margaux and Saint-Julien. This lesser-known vineyard area, grown on similar soils of gravel and limestone over deeper clays and silt, can offer great value. The Château Duplessis 2018 vintage has attractive fresh and baked fruit aromas with earthy, spicy undertones. The palate has good depth, brisk acidity, well integrated oak flavours and bold tannins