Aromas of currants and dark cherries with orange peel character. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and chocolate with hints of cedar. Crisp and vivid. 66% merlot, 24% cabernet sauvignon and 10% petit verdot. Drink or hold.

Readers looking for a great Bordeaux that won't break the bank need to jump on the 2020 Madame De Beaucaillou. First made in 2018 and all hand-harvested (and optically sorted), it has bright, darker cherry and subtle cassis-like fruits as well as some loamy earth and violet nuances, medium body, a round, supple mouthfeel, and outstanding length. I'd happily drink a bottle any time over the coming 7-8 years or so.

The 2020 Madame de Beaucaillou was picked 11-30 September, matured 20% in new oak for an expected 12 months. It displays good intensity on the nose: blackberry, iodine and iris petals scents, just a scintilla of honey. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, displaying fine depth. The judicious use of new oak allows the black fruit to shine on the finish, with hints of pencil lead on the aftertaste. This is well worth seeking out. (NM)