The 2018 Guillot Clauzel is a blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc with a pH of 3.65 and 14.4% alcohol. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes bounding out of the glass with expressive red and black berry preserves, Black Forest cake and garrigue with hints of tobacco, fragrant soil, cloves and star anise. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is beautifully structured with ripe, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness lifting the dense, earthy layers to a long, refreshing finish. Nicely done!