Château Pavie 2022

Ripe and expressive on the nose, clearly concentrated with opulent aromas but also so much florality – roses, irises and violets with bitter orange peel, chocolate and flint. Smooth and supple, filling and round, this has depth but also real tension giving a push-pull between density and direction. Tannins are fine and have bite as well as flesh – the generous Merlot with more structured Cabernet fighting each other for dominance right now. Layered and mutifaceted with juice and balancing acidity. Feels well made, and deep with both freshness and power. Refined if not totally elegant as it’s got heft, strength and muscles. Characterful and stylish. 3.67pH. Acidity 3.71. A yield of 31hl/ha. The 25th vintage of Gerard Perse at Pavie, and the 10th anniversary of being a Premier Grand Cru Classé A estate. 2022 is the first year to incorporate Pavie-Decesse and Bellevue-Mondotte into the blend. Harvest 19 September – 1 October – the same dates as 2020. Ageing 75% new oak, 25% one year old barrels. Drinking window: 2029-2050. (Georgina Hindle,decanter.com)