Château Rocher Gardat - Montagne-Saint-Émilion 2018 (750ml) South Afriac

Château Rocher Gardat - Montagne-Saint-Émilion 2018 (750ml) South AfriacModern nose with toasted oak, through some graphite and black plums. The palate has a juicy resolution with a smooth flesh base of succulent tannins. A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Classic French cuisine. Grilled or roasted beef. Soft cheeses. Climate Montagne St. milion enjoys a maritime climate caused by the Atlantic Ocean. The heat of the Gulf Stream and the Gironde act as a heat regulator and temper the climate. This ensures mild

a wine that exhibits this exceptional character

I tasted this wine next to the 100-point 2016 vintage for friendly comparison

which is a great sign given the challenges of the heat spike that rocked the valley beginning 31 August

this shiraz offers its richness without any aggression or overt perfume

This wine is made from a selection of the estate's youngest vines

followed by a minimum of 8 months in the bottle

pressed at 1-3%

and aromatic intensity

which adds an intriguing tension to the tactile palate

The 2021 Cuvée Le Bec is a very beautiful entry-level offering from Steve Beckmen

with dense tannins on the finish

and cocoa linger throughout the minutes-long finish