Château Grand Puy Lacoste, 5ème Cru Classé, Pauillac,

Plenty of Pauillac typicity, savoury Cabernet Sauvignon dominance in its flavour profile, blueberry, cassis, cocoa bean, liqourice root, grilled cloves, even silky tannins - this is a success, with estate character, even if shorter drinking window than in more concentrated vintages. Eric Boissenot consultant, Borie family owners. 75% new oak, harvest September 24 to October 8.

The 2021 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is made from 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot, harvested from 24 September to 8 October, with yields of 40 hl/ha. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it gives up expressive scents of plum preserves, cassis, and black cherries with hints of truffles, cast-iron pan, and bay leaves. Light to medium-bodied, the palate offers refreshing, delicately played black fruit flavors with soft tannins and a ferrous finish.

The 2021 Grand Puy Lacoste, matured in around 70% new oak and bottled in June 2023, is about as classic a Bordeaux as you will find in contemporary Bordeaux, which is not unexpected given the vintage and château in question. Black fruit, cedar and tobacco unfurl on the nose with pencil shavings coming through with time—it is much more open and expressive compared to recent vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, one of the most saline vintages in recent years with a gentle build toward the finish. It's not a showstopper. It's not the apotheosis of GPL. But you'll finish the bottle and probably want another glass.