If clarets are your thing, then this has to be an obvious contender for a general allrounder. Without hitting the prices of the cru classe, this reveals what the revered appelations are all about. Made in one of the best recent vintages, Merlot is the predominant grape so its always going to be forward and soft but add in splashes of Cab Franc and Cab Sauv ( 20% each) then you are adding in extra flavours and complexity. Sweet ripe bramble fruit and red plums with an element of smokey black tea. Fresh and bright on the palate, with smooth supple tannins