Château Palmer, 3ème Cru Classé, Margaux, 2017

If there were one or two dissenting voices over Alter Ego, there was no such disunion over the Palmer. This is spot on, exactly how Palmer should be, dark, sexy and a bit flashy. There's 12% press wines in the final blend, which comprises 54% Merlot, 42% Cab Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot. This has a wonderful purity and fragrance on the nose. Detailed black cherries, inky dark fruit interspersed with gravelly minerals and a touch of garrigue - there's something very noble and haunting about the aromas that develop in the glass. On the palate this is classically velvety with luxuriant dark fruit and exotic spice. It fills the mouth with bountiful fruit; so pure and decadent yet controlled. Although the tannins are modern, with their velour texture hey are laced with swathes of ripe dark fruit; this remains vital and vibrant with a good seam of acidity. A real seductress.