Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 La Bridane prances out of the glass with pretty notes of Morello cherries, plum preserves and rose oil, plus hints of star anise and allspice, with a hint of fallen leaves. The medium-bodied palate delivers plenty of juicy red and black fruit, framed by soft, rounded tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with a spicy kick.

This shows notes of ripe and mellow blackberries with hints of vanilla, toffee and chocolate. Medium-bodied and dense with powdery, chewy tannins and a solid dark fruit backbone. Some savory herbs, too. Cabernet sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot.

Chewy tannins and an enjoyable grip and depth through the palate. Intense blackberry and bilberry fruits, not a huge amount of polish to the tannins yet but has potential. Thank goodness St-Julien still produces good value wines like this one, and your reward for patience as it opens up is a juicy feel through the finish. Engaging aromatics also, with peony and tobacco leaf. 15ha, Bruno Saintount owner.

A medium-bodied, fresh, and lively Saint-Julien, the 2020 Chateau La Bridane offers ample cassis, spice, and violet nuances to go with subtle background oak, ripe tannins, and wonderful purity of fruit.