Very attractive plum and cherry aromas with hints of flowers and wet earth, following through to a medium to full body with linear, polished tannins and a juicy finish. Juicy fruit to finish with some minerality and forest-flower undertones. A little tight, but very pure at the end. Drink after 2025.

The 2019 Bellefont-Belcier is a wine of tremendous reserve. The 35% Cabernet Franc comes through in the wine's aromatic profile and overall feel. Readers will have to be patient, as the 2019 needs time to come together. It is a seriously impressive wine with tons of character. I have long admired Bellefont-Belcier for its potential. In the past, the tannins were simply overpowering, if the 2019 is any indication, that might be less of an issue going forward.

From a beautifully situated hillside vineyard, sandwiched between Larcis Ducasse and Tertre Roteboeuf on either side, with holdings belonging to Pavie and Troplong Mondot on the plateau above, the 2019 Bellefont Belcier has turned out very well indeed. Offering up aromas of smoky berry fruit, loamy soil, subtle spices, black truffle and violets, it's full-bodied, velvety and seamless, with a vibrant, enveloping profile and a long, penetrating finish. This is a terrific effort, though given the thoughtful farming and program of replanting that is underway at this long-neglected estate, I suspect it only hints at what is to come as Jean-Christophe Meyrou and his team get to work.