Checking in as a mix of 85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in 50% new oak, the 2018 Château Chauvin is a rich, powerful wine that clearly ranks with the finest wines from this address in the past decade or so. A dense purple hue is followed by awesome black raspberry and spiced cherry fruits as well as notes of chocolate, dried herbs, sandalwood, and tobacco. With full-bodied richness, a round, layered mouthfeel, and ripe yet certainly present tannins, it has some up-front appeal given its beautiful fruit and texture, yet it deserves 4-6 years in the cellar and will be a 20- to 25-year wine. Bravo!

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