Château de Sales 2018

In 2017, Bruno de Lambert, the owner of de Sales, retired, and 14 members of the Lambert family took on the responsibility of managing the property. I wanted to evaluate whether the quality of the wine improved with the arrival of the younger generation, so I requested to taste vintages from 2017 to 2021.

The 2017 vintage, rated 88 points, showcased the property's traditional style: light, round, a bit foursquare, and gentle. In contrast, the 2018 vintage was notably larger and more structured, displaying a well-balanced character that remained true to the Pomerol style. It earned a rating of 91 points. The 2019 vintage was even more elegant than its predecessor, offering greater finesse, and received a rating of 91 points. The 2020 vintage perfectly combined the intensity of the 2018 wine with the elegance of the 2019 vintage, resulting in a rating of 91+p. Lastly, the 2021 vintage was lighter but classic in its representation of Pomerol, showcasing an alluring black truffle aroma and earning a rating of 89 points.

Dark purple red colour with violet hue and almost black core. Balanced nose with distinct fruit, blackberries, hints of blackcurrants, ripe plums and discreet touches of sweet elderberries. Subtle oak and wonderful spiciness. On the palate pleasant fruit at the start, then developing the tannic structure on the palate with very balance, ripe tannins, freshness and convincing length.