Owned by the Cuvelier family (of St-Julien second growth Chateau Leoville Poyferre), Le Crock is sizeable 32ha estate on sandy soils over gravel. The 2018 blends 45% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, aged in a variety of barrels for 14-18 months, with 30% new wood. It's complex on the palate with concentration and a regal, plush texture, fresh acidity and firm tannins to carry the fruit weight. At its best now but no hurry to drink over the next 2-3 years.

A complex nose with aromas of blackberries, spices and chocolate. It's full-bodied with wonderfully integrated tannins that show dark fruit and berries with some lavender and violet undertones. Such gorgeous texture to this. Really impressive for this estate. A blend of 57% cabernet sauvignon, 33% merlot, 5% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot.

The 2018 Le Crock offers plenty of Saint-Estephe character in its brambly red berry fruit and burly, but well-balanced tannins. Cedar, tobacco, smoke and earthy notes add quite a bit of aromatic presence. This is an especially rich, potent edition because of dry, warm east winds that caused dehydration, thereby lowering yields. There is plenty of personality here.

The Cuvelier family of Leoville-Poyferre in Saint-Julien have given us a strongly textured and rich wine from this property in Saint-Estephe. Its power and density will allow it to age well.

This has a frankly ripe edge, with plum and black cherry notes showing a caressing feel, while racy bay, charcoal and tobacco notes flow underneath. Hints of leather and humus emerge through the finish, while the fruit has the staying power to match them. Solid range and character. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.