Despite my constant gushing over cheap BDX in the 2018 vintage, I think this is the first Medoc I’ve tried. Typically a lot *harder* than the Lalande-Pomerols and St. Estephe Grand Cru’s, they need some time to settle down–but what about the lush, early love shown in 2018? Rich and ripe on initial nose, but a bit of bottle-funk and austerity. Decanted vigorously. Beautiful, rich earthy fruit of delirious nature comes forth, a spicy green mint glow on ridiculous deep cherry and blackberry. Woodsy bark and weedy briar abound: green broken stems surging with sap and bitter essences. Dark black ruby in the glass–thinning to a minuscule rim.
Tasting it immediately gives nod to *probably buying a few more and see where they go*–especially at the price. This will be a fun wine to watch evolve, as the green, vibrant qualities on the nose and attack massage the rich fruit throughout the mouthfeel. Decadent in places, but nowhere near casting a *new-world-esque* asterisk on the total package–as can be often the case with US imports. Chalkily dry while bright with acidity, it flows gently along into complimentary tannin which never overwhelms but makes sure you notice. And the buried fruit never concedes and inch. I would stack this up with some of California’s more austere but deep offerings like Corison, Kathryn Kennedy, Nickel & Nickel and Forman. It’s a beautiful little wine, and a welcome sight on California shelves.
2018 CHATEAU LA PIGOTTE TERRE FEU Medoc AOP Bordeaux France 14.0
Stephen McConnell 