Clos Manou 2018 Tinto

Blueberry, blackberry, mushroom and herbal notes on the nose. Full-bodied with dusty tannins. Balanced and flavorful. Medium, savory finish. Some nice bark and mushroom undertones at the finish. Try after 2023.

The 2018 Clos Manou comes from the northern part of the Médoc and 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Notes of mulled red and blue fruits, spice, tobacco leaf, espresso, and violets all emerge from the glass, and it has a wonderful richness, building structure, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish. Just a gem of a Médoc that I suspect will represent a great value, it's well worth snatching up and enjoying over the coming 10-12 years.

From Saint-Christoly-Médoc and Couquèques, the 2018 Clos Manou is a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc and has 14% alcohol. Total aging should run 17 months, 70% in new French oak barrels, 25% in concrete eggs and 5% in terracotta jars. Deep purple-black in color, it bursts from the glass with vibrant red and black currants, black raspberries and red plums scents with hints of woodsmoke, tar and lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has bags of energy with juicy red and black fruit and a firm, grainy texture, finishing savory.

Précis, savoureux, naturel dans ses équilibres, très bien vinifié, médoc modèle.