2015 Château Lassègue

This property was acquired in 2003 by the late Jess Jackson and is now part of Jackson Family Wines' international network. According to Stephen Brook's Complete Bordeaux bible, the encepagement is 62% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Franc, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dark crimson. Sweet, juicy nose and (just) not too oaky, nor too alcoholic though probably a bit too sweet for classicists. There is some freshness on the end though. A good vintage for this cosseted property. (JR)

Dark cherry, plum, bittersweet chocolate, menthol and cloves infuse the 2015 Lassègue. This supple, voluptuous Saint-Émilion will drink well right out of the gate. As good as the 2015 is, it would be nice to see a wine with more complexity and pedigree. Lassègue is 55% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, done in 70% new oak.

Made by Pierre Seillan of Verité in Sonoma (the estate was purchased by the Jackson Family in 2003) from 50- to 60-year-old vines on clay and limestone, the 2015 Lassegue is composed of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple colored, it opens with expressive black forest cake, preserved plums and blackberry pie notes with an undercurrent of mocha, grilled meats, sandalwood and cigar box plus a waft of lavender. Medium to full-bodied, rich and densely packed with opulent layers of spiced black fruit preserves and chocolate box notions, it has wonderfully plush yet firm tannins and a lovely suggestion of background acid, finishing long and fragrant. 7,500 cases were produced.