critic reviews
Firmly and squarely in its drinking window at this 10 year point, but not quitting yet, this showcases soft tannins, tobacco and undergrowth along with raspberry fruits and rose petal floral notes. Higher acidity than some in the lineup, but still going strong, and great value. Melanie Barton-Sartorius winemaker.
The 2014 Mauvesin-Barton has an open and generous, very pure, almost Côte de Beaune-like bouquet with red cherries, wild strawberry and light rose petal aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin, brisk and breezy, not a deep or grippy Left Bank wine but balanced and fresh, the oak judiciously used towards the easy-going but satisfying finish. Fine. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.
The Chateau Mauvisin Barton 2014, whose technical director is Melanie Barton-Sartorius, is a blend of 53% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. It has a light, fragrant, floral bouquet that gently unfolds with touches of freshly tilled earth infusing the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a lightly peppered opening. This is a little rustic, but nicely balanced with a crisp spicy finish that is classic in style. Give this three or four years after bottling.