Guillot Clauzel 2019 (750ML)

92-94+ Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate: "This wine is now being made by Guillaume Thienpont, from Vieux Chateau Certan. The blend this year is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, harvested between the 23rd of September and 4th of October. The alcohol came in at 14.4% and the pH is 3.7. It is being aged in French oak barrels, 50% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2019 Guillot Clauzel bursts from the glass with flamboyant notes of plum preserves, baked black cherries and mulberries with hints of dark chocolate, licorice and black peppercorns plus a waft of smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers open-knit, black fruit flavors with plush tannins and compelling freshness, finishing long and juicy. Clearly, this is a property on an upward trend and one to watch!" 6/20

"The 2019 Guillot Clauzel is every bit as compelling as it was from barrel. Rich fruit and racy contours show the exuberance of the warm summer and yet persistent mineral-drive, savory undertones add distinctive character. It's the sort of wine that needs a few years in bottle to fully blossom. Vibrant dark fruit, dried rose petal, licorice and menthol build into the potent finish. This is the second vintage made under the direction of Guillaume Thienpont. The future certainly looks bright here." 02/22

Extremely aromatic with violets and other flowers, together with some blackberries and dried fruit, such as figs. Dried olives, too. Full-bodied and beautifully ripe with a rich palate and fine, chewy tannins. Yet, it turns fine and polished at the end. Made by Guillaume Thienpoint, the son of the winemaker at Le Pin and VCC. A blend of 85% merlot and 15% cabernet franc. 5,500 bottles made from only 2.5 hectares. Try after 2027.