Clos de Sarpe 2022 (750ML)

Very old vines on the eastern side of Saint-Émilion supply Clos de Sarpe, and the 2022 is 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc. The Merlot was picked on September 21 and 23, the Cabernet Franc on October 1 and 3, from yields of 35 hl/ha. Jean-Philippe Fort consults, and the wine spent 12 months in barrel, the large majority of it new French oak. For all its ripeness, the pH sits at a low 3.3, and that acidity sets the tone. Blackcurrant and violet lead, with graphite and wet stone underneath. The palate is full and layered, its fine tannins tucked behind bright, high-acid fruit, and the finish turns savory and stony. Critics expect it to keep improving for decades. Serve it with roast leg of lamb, duck breast with blackberries or a well-aged Comté.