Chateau Haut Bages Monpelou 2021

JAMES SUCKLING: "A medium-bodied, firm yet suave red with very finely textured and caressing tannins. Pleasing mid-palate. Classic Pauillac nose of blackberries, gravel and some ash. Persistent, too. 71% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot, 2% cabernet franc."

DECANTER: "Such aromatic interest on the nose, the aromas really coming from the Cabernets - especially the Franc. A concoction of pot pourri and bright red berry fruit. Elegant and refined on the palate, a very pretty Pauillac, still with the superior Cabernet fruit to the fore - the black pepper, green pepper, eucalyptus, black chocolate and cedar giving the spice and edges. It's confident and I especially like the bitterness coming through - the stalky wood, bitter chocolate and liquorice which contrasts with the red fruits. Long length and good freshness."