The 2020 Château Pédesclaux reminds me of the 2016 with its concentrated, pure, classic Pauillac style. A blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it has a great nose of pure blue fruits (currants, cassis) as well as ample lead pencil, chalky minerality, and violet aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and elegant on the palate, it has the purity and polish to shine even today, yet my money is on it benefiting from 4–6 years of bottle age, and it should evolve gradually over the following 15+ years.

The 2020 Pédesclaux is a powerhouse. The tannins are a bit less searing than they were en primeur, but only slightly. Dark fruit, chocolate, leather, spice and licorice struggle to emerge. This feels pushed. Pédesclaux is a Pauillac that relies more on power than finesse.

A crunchy and fresh 2020 with sliced oranges and redcurrants as well as cedar and nutmeg. Full-bodied with very firm and tight tannins. Bright finish. Crushed stone at the end as well. Needs three to five years to soften. 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. First year with organic farming. Try after 2027.

Deep purple-black colored, the 2020 Pedesclaux charges out of the gate with energetic notes of crushed blackberries, black raspberries and ripe blackcurrants, followed by suggestions of menthol, aniseed, violets and cedar chest. The medium-bodied palate quivers with vibrant, crunchy black and red berries layers, framed by firm, ripe tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing long and deliciously savory.