La Chenade, Lalande de Pomerol, 2017

Denis Durantou's 'entry level' wines, that is to say the wines not produced at his flagship Pomerol estate, Chateau L'Eglise Clinet always rank amongst our 'best value' buys. Saintayme, Chenade, Cruzelles and Montlandrie offer excellent value for money. Denis is quite rightly very proud of his 2017s, referring to them as a 'rare triplet' (with 2015 and 2016). La Chenade tends to be our favourite of these wines, it has a tremendous track record providing charming yet intense fruit wrapped in well-mannered tannins and vibrant acidity. The 2017 is no exception, it is beautifully balanced with bright red cherry fruit, cranberries, a hint of fine herbs and graphite. The palate is really engaging and bright and finishes with finely honed tannins. 80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. 100% one year old barrels.