ENCLOS TOURMALINE

This is 97% Merlot, with 3% Cabernet Franc, from just 1.2 hectares of vines. The Cabernet Franc is planted at a high density, on gravel soils, just in front of the cellars. The harvest was from September 15th to the 21st, the yield 32 hl/ha. A rather vibrant nose, with rose petal, red cherry and smoke, a suggestion of crushed chalk and a touch of dried fruit. The palate feels rather reticent, with a core of rather dry and savoury berries, wrapped in a modest texture, with a rich ribbon of tannins holding it all together. It is lifted a little by the freshness of the vintage, the acidity fine and linear, before a cohesive finish which simmers with dark fruit, energy and grip. A rather solidly built example of the vintage; hopefully time will soften its resolve. The alcohol is declared to be 13.5%. Rating: 94-96 Chris Kissack, www.thewinedoctor.com (Apr 2024)

This is very long and tight with wonderful al-dente fruit, such as blackberry and orange peel. Fine tannins run the length of the wine, keeping it fresh and vivid at the end. 97% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. Rating: 95-96 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Apr 2024)