2018 Château Taillefer
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Taillefer has a pretty nose of blackberry, blueberry and light violet aromas, nothing outrageous but nicely proportioned, and the oak is neatly integrated. The palate is ripe and grippy. There is decent freshness, and I was surprised when I noticed on the back label that it is 15% alcohol. It just misses a bit of persistence and finesse on the finish.
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Neal Martin
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Taillefer is an attractive, mid-weight Pomerol that will drink well with minimal cellaring. Bright red flowers, spice, mint, tobacco and white pepper lend vibrant aromatic presence throughout. The finish is persistent and very nicely articulated.
Bernard Moueix owns this property of sand and gravel on a clay base with some iron oxide. Claire Moueix vinified the blend of 81% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc. Some fruit picked as late as 4 October – see the alcohol level. Aged for 12 months in oak barrels (40% new). Deep purplish crimson. Light nose with putty notes. Sweet black-cherry start and even a hint of coconut. Pretty exaggerated without enough freshness. Damp-fur notes. This is a wine that almost bludgeons rather than titillates the palate. But the Pomerol suits the style more than its St-Émilion stablemate Ch Tauzinat l'Hermitage. (JR)