Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Grandes Murailles is still sporting a fair bit of oak, soon opening out to reveal notions of baked black plums, kirsch and mulberries, plus touches of red roses and tilled soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate bursts with black and red berry flavors with a firm frame coming from the oak tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with lovely purity. Give this a good 3-4 years in bottle to allow the oak to soften, and then enjoy it over the next 15+ years.

A tight and juicy red with chocolate, hazelnut and plum character. Hints of salt and white pepper, too. Full and formed. Could be better than 2016 or 2015.