The 2015 Monbousquet is a blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon matured in 70% new oak. It has a ripe and sexy bouquet with black cherries, black olive and blueberry. The oak is nicely integrated here. The palate is full-bodied with saturated tannin, supple in the mouth, easy-going in some ways with a smooth rounded finish of licorice-tinged black fruit mixed with cassis and a hint of cedar, more evident on a second sample I tasted outside the château. What it needs is just more finesse and delineation but it should turn out nicely once in bottle. Rating: 90-92 Points; Date Tasted: Apr 2016; Drink: 2019-2032; Neal Martin; Robert Parker The Wine Advocate

Tight and structured with blackberry and blueberry character. Hints of almonds and spice. Full and savory. Velvety tannins. Rating 94-95 Points: Date Tasted: Mar 2016; James Suckling