Château Bellefont-Belcier 2022

A complex and complete Bellefont-Belcier that shows a touch of pepper and mineral character to the deep flavors of dark cherries, violets and blackberries. Tense and pretty bright with lightly chewy and vibrating tannins throughout. This is more about texture, with medium to full body and a tight-grained, lengthy finish. 72% merlot, 18% cabernet franc and 10% cabernet sauvignon. Drink from 2028.

The 2022 Bellefont Belcier, a blend of 72% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, confirms all our expectations placed on it during the en primeur tasting. Wafting from the glass with a fresh, delicate and complex bouquet of dark wild berries, flowers, iris, cassis and spices, it's medium to full-bodied, suave and seamless with a deep core of fruit and a vibrant, energetic mid-palate framed by delicate, refined tannins and culminating in a long, saline finish with chalky dry extracts. It will offer a broad drinking window.

Deep ruby, opaque core, purple reflections, subtle brightening on the rim. Nuance of fine oak, dark cherries, ripe plums, a touch of nougat. Taut, juicy, cherries, good fruit expression, fine acidity, silky and elegant, lingers long, mineral in the echo. Good length, a touch of nougat in the finish, a versatile food wine with good ageing potential.

Lovely aromatic profile with seriously perfumed scents of red berry fruit, roses, clove and dried herbs. Hints of the vintage come through in the ripe fruit with just chewy tannins while the freshness appears from high acidity with a salty tang on the finish. This combines power and push with energy and focus creating a layered and characterful wine. It's still a touch serious - lots of sticky liquorice, clove, bitter chocolate, tobacco and aniseed spice but delivers intensity and appeal in equal measure. Wait for a few years before opening.

This 34-acre vineyard, established at the beginning ot the 19th century, is located on a south-facing slope. The wine, with its black chocolate aroma, rich spice and black currant flavor has weight and density. It is stylish, with a firm structure and solid fruits. Drink from 2027.