Justerini & Brooks, 61 Reserve Claret, nv

The current release of our reserve claret hails from the exuberant 2018 crop. Made as ever by the father and son team of Paul and Cédric Valade, this Cote de Castillon combines notes of plum, cherry and lilac with hints of leather and spice. The palate is rich and structured with plenty of dark hedgerow fruit and graphite, encased in refined tannins. Produced from 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, this is a perfect accompaniment for roasts and hard cheeses or just enjoyed on its own. It’s worth noting that this is the same wine as Le Peyrat 2018, which Jancis Robinson MW awarded 16.5/20 in a recent article on jancisrobinson.com.