2005 St Pierre (Pomerol)

Generous from the first nose, another sign that the 2005s are starting to come around. Finely spun tannins, and at this point the tobacco of the older vintages becomes charred cedar, campfire smoke, cool ash. Confident but finely-framed tannins, with clear blackberry and bilberry fruit pulsing underneath. Silky in texture with a burst of minerality in the mid palate making your mouth water. This is gorgeous, ready to drink but no hurry, walking the tightrope of subdued power and gentle abandon. Saint Pierre was recognised to have really delivered a hit in the 2005 vintage, and it is now the epitome of finesse. Harvest September 22 to October 5, 60% new oak.