Tour St Christophe 2021 (750ML)

Tour St Christophe came in at 35 hl/ha in 2021, from a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. The élevage split vessels: barrels, 40% of them new, plus foudres for 20% of the wine. The vintage produced a somewhat less lavish version than the estate sometimes makes, with acidity pushed to the front. Blackberry and cassis lead a deep, dark nose, with ripe cherry, licorice, leather, cocoa and tobacco behind, plus a floral note. The attack is juicy and bright, with a streak of fresh red berry, and the tannins are ripe beneath gentle herbal notes and a touch of vanilla and cinnamon. It drinks well now, and critical opinion has it holding through the late 2030s. Good partners: grilled Toulouse sausages, pork chops with fennel, or a platter of charcuterie.