DomaineMerlinSaintJosephLesGrandsDucsMagnum

A large-scale red which bears the name of the eagle owls, discreet hosts of the small plot in Saint-Joseph. The wine, rich and aristocratic, presents magnificent fruit enhanced by well-marked spices, coated with well-controlled woodiness. The finish will improve after two or three years of aging. This bottle is in magnum format.

92/100 – Medium-bodied, fresh and precise with good acidity, neat tannins, decent concentration and a smoky touch over the forest berry fruits that brings some complexity. Really quite zesty acidity coupled with strict tannins suggest that after a few years this will be a lovely wine. The oak work is robust. 2,300 bottles produced. – Matt Walls, Decanter

17/20 – Tasted blind. Creamy notes on the nose with candied violets and earthy notes. A rich dense palate with dark fruits, spice, very fine tannins and dominant oak. Has some cola notes and richness. Quite introverted at the moment but appealing depth and density. – Alistair Cooper MW, JancisRobinson.com