La Gravette de Certan 2018 (1.5L)

90 Points, Neal Martin, Vinous: "The 2018 La Gravette de Certan, the second wine of Vieux Château Certan, comprises Merlot blended with younger Cabernet Sauvignon vines, raised in 50% new oak. It has a more complex, nuanced bouquet than I encountered out of barrel; the brambly red fruit is still present, but now intermixed with light truffle, clove and espresso scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and light cracked black pepper notes mingling with the black fruit. Then it tightens up toward the finish, which feels fresh and delineated. This is an excellent La Gravette that should give up to 12 years of drinking pleasure." 03/21

95 Points, James Suckling, jamessuckling.com: "Currant, chocolate, wet-earth and cedar aromas follow through to a medium to full body with integrated, refined tannins that build on the palate and follow through in a polished way. Give it three or four years to open, as it seems rather tight. Almost all merlot with some cabernet sauvignon. Try after 2025." 02/21