Les Allées de Cantemerle 2013

Deep ruby colour with a medium rim, 2013 is lightish with quite ample black fruit with smoky and leathery tones. The palate reflects the nose- it is shortish yet pleasant. The structure is well-balanced, with good acidity and 13% alcohol level. Well done, second wine from Chateau Cantemerle. Blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. Ageing 12 months in French oak barrels and vats. The right time to drink with two years to go. Not many scores on this vintage: Wine-Searcher gives a score of 90.

The official site writes about the wine as follows. The second wine of Château de Cantemerle, Les Allées de Cantemerle, is produced mainly from the young vines of the estate. It always has some rare to achieve such refinement in fruit aromas for wines at this level. It can be drunk very young when the charm and the fruit dominate and blend with the taste of vanilla from the barrels where it has matured. This wine is then that of the modern consumer, who likes fresh tannins.

(Photo 2006)

However, it can also be drunk ancient when it displays this impeccable presence, this understated distinction, and these incomparable aromas. By this, it is akin to the rare wines in the world that can span several decades.