D'Armailhac

The wine is defined by a kind of elegant classicism, discernible whatever the vintage. The tannic structure is both robust and refined, providing a perfect foil for a complex array of aromas and flavours which continue to develop and emerge over time, with consistently forward fruit and typical lead‑pencil notes. Château d’Armailhac has considerable ageing potential but may also be enjoyed young. It is a perfect illustration of the Pauillac style, combining all the features of a great wine while remaining approachable.

Winemaker notes

The wine is a glittering ruby red. The refined and elegant nose displays redcurrant and raspberry aromas combined with brioche and violet notes. On the attack, juicy, succulent fruit emerges from beneath rounded, well-integrated tannins. The palate, nicely balanced by a fresh, mineral structure, reveals delicate chocolatey flavours enfolded in a smooth, silky texture. The harmonious finish lingers on crisp, slightly sappy fruit.

2021

Wine Advocate 92: The 2021 d'Armailhac has turned out beautifully, bursting with attractive aromas of minty cassis and blackberries mingled with notions of pencil shavings and sweet pipe tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, ample and polished, it's supple and seamless, with a fleshy core of fruit and a licorice-inflected finish. En primeur, I compared this to a modern-day version of the estate's immensely charming 1999, and anyone who remembers the 1999 will find that the 2021 delivers just as wide a drinking window.

James Suckling 92: This fresh and vivid red has minerals and lead pencil with currants and berries. Some dried flowers. Medium body. Fine tannins and a lively finish. Crispy from bright acidity. Needs one or two years to soften slightly.

Decanter 94: Smells heady, black bramble fruit on the nose, fragrant black cherries, a dusting of clove and cinnamon spice, orange peel - slightly bitter but juicy with a hint of toast too. Quite tight and lean, direct and focussed, this is streamlined - you can feel the cool blue fruit and slightly tense tannin structure, seamless but all held in one line in the centre of the wine. A little strict, but pure, precise and clean. There is lovely clarity to the expression, a silky texture with mouthwatering acidity. Tastes fresh and lively and so clean with that moreish salty and menthol tang that lingers on the tongue. Sleek with a really long finish. Really intense flavours that coat the mouth - cinnamon, clove, redcurrants, cherries, blueberries and blackcurrants. Cola and liquorice lingers on. Sleek and well delivered.