The 2014 Les Grandes Murailles has an opulent and ostentatious bouquet with ample kirsch, strawberry, singed leather and red plums. It could have been pushed too far, yet it retains fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, well-integrated oak, smooth in texture and gaining in intensity towards a gorgeous, lightly spiced finish. This is a very classy Les Grandes Murailles that surpasses my expectations and it should cruise nicely for 12-15 years.

This shows quite a complex, savory nose before ripe red fruit charges through on the palate and makes the wine so much more immediately appealing. Fresh acidity lifts the sleek finish. Drink or hold.

Solid, with a core of juicy plum and raspberry preserve notes, laced with a lively licorice streak. The judicious toast is well-integrated through the finish. Drink now through 2026. 483 cases made. — JM