2020 Saintem

Based on 100% Merlot, the 2020 Saintayme showed well, offering up lots of red and black fruits, graphite, and dried herbs. Slightly closed and backward, it opens up with air and is medium-bodied, has good mid-palate density, and firmer tannins on the finish. Based on 100% Merlot, it's going to benefit from just a year or two in the cellar and will put a smile on your face any time over the following 7-8 year. This is a perennial terrific value.

The 2020 Saintayme has opened up nicely on the nose since I tasted it from barrel. Black cherries, raspberry coulis , and a background estuarine scent. This is very well-defined and cohesive. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly granular texture, fine acidity, black fruit with a touch of orange rind, just a little rigidity on the finish that will be addressed by a couple of years in bottle. This is a lovely Saintayme that may deserve a higher score down the line.

The 2020 Saintayme is every bit as charming as it was en primeur. Racy and layered in the glass, this mid-weight Saint-Émilion is quite open and accessible today. Crushed red berry fruit, spice, white pepper, rose petal and a touch of new oak are all nicely put together. I would give this a few years to come together, as the tannins are a bit nervy today. There's terrific energy and vibrancy here. Pretty floral accents liven up the finish.