Black raspberries, redcurrants, tobacco, and floral/violet notes all emerge from the 2021 Château Malartic-Lagravière, a medium-bodied, supple, incredibly elegant 2021 with fine tannins. This layered, elegant Péssac-Léognan will surprise in the cellar due to its overall balance. The 2021 is 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, and it saw a slightly shorter maceration than normal (21 days) and was brought up in 65% new oak.

The 2021 Malartic Lagravière offers good depth, but naturally less of the opulence of recent years. Part of that is the year and part is likely the result in a change in stylistic direction. It will be interesting to see where things ultimately settle. Dark red/purplish fruit, spice, incense, licorice and gravel emerge, and yet the finish is a bit dry.

A blend of fully 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, the 2021 Malartic Lagravière offers up aromas of sweet berries, plums, burning embers and warm spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, ample and powdery palate that's impressively concentrated, refined and elegant. It's a fine effort from an estate on the rise.