Château Barde-Haut 2021

The 2021 Barde-Haut is a relatively soft wine for this site in Saint-Émilion’s Saint Christophe des Bardes sector, but there’s good depth and plenty of resonance. Rose petal, lavender and spice meld into a core of red/purplish berry fruit. All the elements are very nicely balanced. Specifically, the oak imprint is not as present as in previous years, and that’s a good thing. The 2021 is beautifully done from start to finish. It’s a terrific effort from Hélène Garcin and Patrice Lévêque. Drinking Window: 2029-2041. (Antonio Galloni,vinous.com)