Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
75cl * 13.5% ABV * Haut Medoc, Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux in 2020 seems to have all the freshness that made the outstanding 2016 so appealing, but also combines the warmth and accessibility of vintages like 2009 - we can't get enough of this vintage, even if volumes are largely down. We have long been fans of Poujeaux (a Cru Bourgeois property that surely should be elevated to Class Growth) and are always tickled that it was once mistaken for Lafite. Initially minerally-driven with some grip of tannin, a murmur of redcurrant, cassis and raspberry peaks out from underneath the rather brooding first impression. A touch light in youth, it will gain fleshiness and richness with time in bottle.
Drink 2026-2038.
"Very dark core with purplish rim. Dark, savoury and a little bit oaky on the nose and the same character on the palate. The fruit is there at the core but there is absolutely no fruit sweetness until right at the very end, just dark and refined. Firm, slightly thick, chewy tannins. A little unyielding for now but harmonious. Drink 2028 - 2035" 16+ points, Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com (April 2021)
"The 2020 Poujeaux is jam-packed with inky dark fruit, graphite, cloves, lavender, licorice and a kiss of new French oak that will almost certainly integrate during élevage. Plush, engaging and flat-out delicious, with silky, perfectly ripe tannins and superb balance, this is looking to be another superb wine from the Cuvelier family." 90-92 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous
"Good depth of colour to the fruit, deep plum, with attractive fresh fruit aromatics. Confident tannic frame with acidity and black fruits - all the elements to ensure it will age. There isn't the richness of the fruit that you will find in 2016 but it is full of personality and easy to recommend. One of the more successful wines from Moulis in the vintage. Lots of tannins, and a point of bitterness on the close of play that needs to be carefully handled during ageing. A yield of 34hl/ha." Drink 2025 - 2036 Jane Anson, Decanter.com (May 2021)
"A dense, layered red with blackberry, tar, asphalt and spice character. Medium-to full-bodied with wonderful, polished and creamy tannins. Chewy and fine. Potentially one of the best in a long time." 94-95 points, James Suckling (April 2021)