This estate has been on fire of late and that doesn't appear to have changed with the 2018 Château Sansonnet. Revealing a dense purple hue as well as a young, unevolved bouquet of pure crème de cassis, graphite, crushed violets, bouquet garni, chocolate, and distinct chalky minerality, it delivers remarkable purity, full-bodied richness, silky tannins, and flawless balance. A wine that builds slowly with time in the glass, offering a beautiful mix of richness, elegance, and length, it's as good, if not even better than the 2016. Don't miss it! 96+

The 2018 Sansonnet is super-impressive right out of the gate. In recent years, Sansonnet has been opulent. The 2018 captures all of that richness but also has an extra kick of vibrancy that works so well in balancing things out. The style is still concentrated, and there is plenty of new oak, but it all works so well together. Inky red fruit, chocolate, plum, rose petals and spice linger on the exotic finish. The 2018 is so expressive today. Moreover, it is flat-out delicious. (

Blackberry, black truffle, red tile and walnut on the nose. Full-bodied with a very dense, polished palate of ripe, firm tannins and beautifully pure fruit. Transparent and gorgeous. This will age nicely.

The 2018 Sansonnet is a blend of 90% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc. With 15% alcohol and a deep garnet-purple color, it opens a little broody, offering glimpses at tar and damp earth notes before bursting forth with expressive plum preserves, blueberry pie and licorice scents, followed by hints of cedar chest and pencil lead. Full-bodied, rich and impactful in the mouth, the generous black fruits are nicely framed by firm, rounded tannins and loads of freshness, finishing long and earthy.

Owned by Marie Lefévère. A ton of interest, with power and depth to the black fruits and the salty lick of limestone coming through at the end. This is excellent quality and has a brilliant, slow slate finish - I love this texture. 80% new oak, with amphorae used in the ageing alongside barrels. This has improved for me over ageing and is an upscore.

Dark currant, fig and blackberry paste flavors are entwined with singed alder, dried tobacco and iron-tinged minerality. Nice drive through the finish too. Well done. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2022 through 2034. 2,800 cases made, 500 cases imported.

92-94. Barrel Sample. This is a generous, ripe wine, with rich, supple tannins. Its acidity and fine fruitiness are already giving great structure. The wine will certainly age well.