La Chenade, Lalande de Pomerol, 2019

2019 turned out to be Denis Durantou’s swansong. He was a remarkably talented man, who always captured the vintage and at times mastered it. His 2013s are a case in point – few vignerons could reach those heights in such a drab year. His 2019s will be his last creations, his farewell gifts to the world. These are generous, beautifully textured wines, full of energy and vim. The Chenade, produced from 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc, offers plenty of toasty, black cherry, huckleberry and bramble fruit at its core. Creamy dark fruit dominates at the moment, but there is a seam of freshness that makes this dynamic and complete and points to a long future. A splendid La Chenade.