The oak steps into the frame here with greater effect, leading the nose with creamed baking spices ahead of ripe cassis and red plums. The palate has ample fleshy red-cherry and plum fruits, before smooth tannins make way for a nicely groomed finish. 79% cabernet sauvignon and 21% merlot.

The 2015 Lynch Moussas is a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Merlot cropped at 44 hl/ha between 17 September and 1 October. It has a very controlled bouquet at first with tightly wound raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, the oak nicely integrated and some lovely undergrowth aromas surfacing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, the acidity well judged, leading to a spice-tinged finish that lingers long in the mouth. It is a very fine follow-up to the 2014 last year, with a freshness and class that I did not find conveyed ten years ago.

This is a vastly improved estate, making impressively good wines in recent vintages. The wine is structured and tannic but also packed with black-currant fruits, good acidity and spice.