Chateau Tour de Pez Saint-Estephe

From the northernmost village on Bordeaux's Left Bank, Chateau Tour de Pez produces lovely, sophisticated wines that are still a bit under-the-radar. One unique aspect here is that the wine is primarily Merlot, a rare occurrence on this side of the river. Don't worry, it's not at all a "shy wine." The 2018 is a blend of 65% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 11% Cabernet Franc.  'Aromas of blackcurrants, black olives, dried flowers, cloves and graphite with some mushroom undertones. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, tightly knit tannins. Savory, chewy finish.' - James Suckling