This estate has been on a roll of late, fashioning outstanding wine after outstanding wine, and the 2017 Chateau Pedesclaux is terrific. Based on 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot, aged in 40% new oak and representing just 60% of the total production, it reveals a vivid purple hue as well as perfumed notes of cassis, violets, and graphite. Incredibly elegant, balanced, and with silky tannins, it’s a classic Pauillac that’s already approachable yet will evolve for 20 years or more.

A fresh, unadorned style, with red currant, pomegranate and bitter cherry fruit flavors giving this a racy, slightly high-pitched feel up front. Shows a solid graphite edge through the fruit, revealing a good tug of earth at the very end, with lingering tobacco and chestnut echoes. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2022 through 2038.