Pensees de Lafleur 2020 (750ML)

The 2020 Les Pensées (they have dropped the “de Lafleur”) is a blend of 29% Merlot and 71% Cabernet Franc picked September 11–19. This is backward at first and needs some coaxing from the glass, almost reluctantly offering blackberry, crushed stone, violet and incense. The palate is silky-smooth on the entry, deep and pixelated, armed with a killer line of acidity and a very cool and sophisticated, beguiling finish. Stunning.--Neal Martin, Vinous Media

This has the physicality of tannins right up front, a clear signature of the vintage, but nothing is heavy or bitter, rather they exert a pressure that gives form and shape to the ripe berry fruits, balanced by mocha, fennel and smoked cocoa bean. Not as joyous as in some vintages of Pensées, but extremely hard to argue with its quality, and the deft, bright finish. Drinking Window 2024 - 2040 - Jane Anson, Decanter