2016 Duluc de Branaire-Ducru St. Julien

Mocha, cocoa powder, blackcurrants and black plums on the nose with some sage and thyme. Juicy and plump, this has a nice lifeforce to it with balanced acidity and a sleek texture, just stopping short of being chewy with a vibrant feel overall. There is energy here and it's matched with high acidity and a round structure. Really persistent with lashings of liquorice, aniseed and clove underneath the bright black fruits. Nice charm, confident and playful yet with real punch and bite. Focussed and extremely well made, so approachable, easy to drink and like.

Attractive aromas and flavors of currants and walnuts with some chocolate. Medium body, medium round tannins and a savory finish. Just starting to come around now. Drink or hold.

The 2016 Duluc de Branaire-Ducru is a soft, fruity wine to drink now and over the next few years, while the red/purplish berry fruit and floral notes retain their youthful vibrancy.