Château Capbern, St Estèphe,

This excellent estate situated between Calon Segur and Montrose benefits from the same wine making team as Calon Segur: Laurent Dufau, Vincent Millet and Eric Boissenot. The fruit from this vineyard formed part of Calon Segur until the 2006 vintage, when the late Denise Gasqueton decided to create a separate label. It has now dropped the Gasqueton from its name and will just be called 'Capbern'. It has its own very smart winery and there is a very handsome Chateau tucked away behind the church in St Estephe. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot cropped at 43.5 hl/ha and raised for 18 months in 60% new French oak barrels, the 2017 Capbern is an impressive and intense St Estephe produced in the new Calon Segur style. Initially a touch dusty and gravelly, it soon reveals its floral Cabernet perfume of violets, cool cassis, well delineated spiced fruits. This is beautifully constructed with so much vibrant black and red fruit, delightful tannins and a pure cherry stone finish. Impressive!