Chateau Grand Corbin-Despagne 2020 Saint Emilion Grand Cru 'Petit Corbin-Despagne'

Full, opaque ruby with some garnet highlights. Very serious, almost stern on first pour with ample charm growing with time in the glass. There is great olfactory presence here, a layering and depth not usually apparent on deuxieme vins; dark cherries and bay mingle seductively with bitter dark chocolate. There is a trimming of herbs, Punch cigar wrappers, and a light touch of dark soil tones. The palate is elegant, layered, with a seriousness of ripe tannin wrapping around the wine. I find great freshness here and a lightness of touch; there is nothing blowsy and overly opulent. Red cherry, loam, cocoa nibs, bay; a touch of mineral salts on the close. A delight. - David