Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2016 Grandes Murailles gives up expressive scents of raspberries, blackberries and warm plums with touches of dried herbs, tobacco and new leather. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the palate with savory-laced black fruits and a chewy texture, finishing with a compelling herbal lift.

Serious St.-Emilion! Cool and delicate nose, then crisp and dry on the palate with good structure, the finish long, very energetic and uplifting. A great food-wine! Drink or hold.

Streamlined and focused, featuring a beautiful beam of cassis and cherry puree blazing through, while light anise, chalky minerality and floral notes fill in underneath. Fresh, driven and pure through the finish, with an alluring whiff of incense at the very end. Drink now through 2035. 542 cases made. — JM