Aromas of ripe berry, mushroom, ash and smoke follow through to a full body with a ripe, juicy center palate and lots of creamy tannins that are balanced and refined. Generous and very intense. Tight palate now. Give it time.

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Trotte Vieille opens with alluring scents of kirsch, baked plums and wild blueberries, plus hints of red roses, dark chocolate, tapenade and fertile loam. The medium to full-bodied palate has ripe, rounded tannins and lovely freshness supporting the juicy red and black fruits, finishing long with great purity.

Tilts to old school in style, with a mix of savory, warm raspberry coulis, sandalwood, red tea and bitter cherry paste notes mixed together. Finish has good cut and persistence, with a fine-grained cedar note framing it all. Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2022 through 2034.